LCR has announced that Takaaki Nakagami will not continue with the squad next year, paving the way for Somkiat Chantra’s move up to MotoGP.
As has been widely expected, 2024 will be the last season in the premier class for Japanese rider Nakagami, who has been a part of the LCR set-up since 2018.
However, he will remain in the Honda family following his departure from MotoGP, bolstering the marque’s test team alongside incumbent Stefan Bradl and incoming Aleix Espargaro.
Unlike Bradl and Espargaro, his role will be based in Japan, but he will also get to take part in select rounds as a wildcard.
Nakagami has tallied up eight seasons of experience in MotoGP, completing over a 100 races during that period, with the highlight being a pole position at Aragon in 2020.
«I’ve decided to end my career as a MotoGP rider at the end of the 2024 season. I want to express my sincere gratitude to all the fans who have warmly supported me,» he said.
«I would also like to thank Idemitsu and Honda for their long-term support. From 2025, I will be involved in the development of HRC machines. It is gratifying to make use of my seven years of experience at MotoGP; I’m excited about my new chapter.
«Finally, I want to thank Lucio and the whole LCR because I’ve felt like part of a family, and these years have been incredible with them; they will always be in my heart!»
Takaaki Nakagami, Team LCR Honda
Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
Nakagami’s place in the Idemitsu-backed side of the LCR garage is likely to be taken over by Thai rider Chantra, who currently sits 10th in the Moto2 standings with the Honda Asia team.
Chantra has been actively competing in Moto2 since 2019 and has clinched two victories in the class so far, while he also achieved a best finish of sixth in the championship in 2023.
Chantra will be able to bank on the experience of one-time MotoGP race winner Johann Zarco, who will remain with LCR in 2025 after joining the team at the start of this year from Pramac Ducati.
Lucio Cecchinello, LCR team principal said: «It’s not a goodbye, it’s a ‘see you very soon’! Our bond with Nakagami hasn’t finished; it’s just about to be transformed, as we will continue to see him inside the HRC MotoGP developing program.
“The past seven years have been significant for the LCR family. Taka is a great, fast rider and an amazing person, working with him has been an absolute pleasure. His politeness, kindness, and professionalism have meant a lot to all the LCR team members and HRC, and we’ll be forever grateful.
“From now on, his contribution to HRC will be fundamental, and I can’t wait to see him around. The whole MotoGP paddock respects and admires Taka, and this is something that goes beyond everything. Thanks for your job and your time with us, Taka!»