Honda HRC gains limited but valuable track time at Portimão test

Honda HRC riders Somkiat Chantra and Jonathan Rea complete limited running during the Portimão WorldSBK test as weather restricts track action ahead of Round 2.

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The Honda HRC squad wrapped up a brief but productive testing session at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão as preparations continue for the second round of the 2026 WorldSBK season. Although the team had planned for two full days of running, unpredictable weather meant riders were only able to make meaningful use of one day on track.

Despite the limited running, the test provided important track time for both riders involved: Somkiat Chantra, who is returning from injury, and test rider Jonathan Rea, who stepped in to cover for Jake Dixon while he continues recovering from injuries sustained during the Phillip Island test last month.

Portimão is scheduled to host Round 2 of the championship later in March, making the test an important opportunity for teams to refine their setups ahead of the race weekend.

Chantra back in action

For Somkiat Chantra, the test marked an important milestone in his recovery. After missing several pre-season tests and the season opener in Australia due to injury, the Thai rider was focused on easing himself back into competitive riding and rebuilding confidence with the Honda CBR1000RR-R.

Chantra managed to complete around 40 laps during Monday’s running, carefully assessing his physical condition while working with the team on basic setup and electronics adjustments.

While he reported that his left arm felt relatively comfortable, he admitted that the right side still causes some discomfort when leaning aggressively into corners. Nevertheless, the test allowed him to gauge his progress and start reconnecting with the bike and crew after his time away from competition.

Rea steps in for Dixon

With Jake Dixon sidelined, Honda called upon experienced test rider Jonathan Rea to step in for the session. The Northern Irishman used the opportunity to help gather valuable feedback for the team while reacquainting himself with a circuit he particularly enjoys.

Rea completed 32 laps during the available track time and focused on understanding the current characteristics of the CBR1000RR-R and identifying areas for further improvement. He noted that while the bike already has a solid base, there are still aspects the team can refine as development continues.

The limited winter testing across the championship has made track time especially valuable this year, and Rea acknowledged that the team still has significant work ahead to reach its full potential.

Weather limits progress

The first day of testing began positively, but a rain shower shortly before midday forced riders off the circuit. Damp conditions persisted for much of the afternoon, with only the final hour providing usable track time.

Unfortunately, day two offered little improvement. Cold temperatures and mixed weather conditions kept the circuit unsuitable for meaningful running, ultimately bringing the test to an early end.

Even with the restricted schedule, both riders reported positive feedback from the bike and a productive working atmosphere within the team.

Looking ahead to Round 2

With the Portimão round approaching quickly on 27–29 March, Honda HRC will soon confirm its rider lineup for the race weekend. The team hopes both Dixon’s recovery and Chantra’s continued rehabilitation will clarify the final grid arrangement in the coming days.

For now, the limited test still provided useful insights for engineers and riders alike, a small but important step as Honda continues refining its package for the 2026 season.