Honda HRC Confirms Chantra & Rea for Portimão

Honda HRC names Somkiat Chantra and Jonathan Rea for the 2026 WorldSBK Portimão round, with Chantra returning from injury and Rea stepping in for Dixon.

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Honda HRC has confirmed its rider line-up for the second round of the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship, set to take place at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão from 27 to 29 March. The team will field Somkiat Chantra alongside six-time world champion Jonathan Rea in what promises to be a compelling weekend for the factory squad.

Chantra is set to make his long-awaited return after missing the opening round due to injury. The Thai rider has already been back on track during a recent test at Portimão, where he focused on rebuilding confidence aboard the factory CBR1000RR-R. However, his participation remains subject to clearance following the final FIM medical assessment ahead of Friday’s free practice sessions. If approved, this will also mark Chantra’s debut in the WorldSBK Championship, adding an extra layer of anticipation to his comeback.

Joining him in the garage is Jonathan Rea, who steps in for Jake Dixon as the British rider continues his recovery from injuries sustained during the Phillip Island test. Dixon’s rehabilitation is reportedly progressing well, though he will sit out the Portimão round as a precaution.

Rea’s inclusion is particularly noteworthy, as it signals a return to Honda machinery in WorldSBK for the first time in over a decade. The Northern Irish rider last competed for Honda at the 2014 season finale in Qatar, where he delivered a strong performance, finishing fourth in Race 1 before securing second place in Race 2 under the floodlights.

With a mix of fresh opportunity and seasoned experience, Honda HRC heads into Portimão with a line-up that blends potential and proven success, setting the stage for an intriguing second round of the championship.