Honda MotoGP team faces challenges at Japanese Grand Prix in Motegi
Autosport • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 2, 2026, 10:46 AM
Last updated Oct 2, 2026
The Honda MotoGP team begins its Japanese Grand Prix weekend at Motegi amid concerns over factory rider Joan Mir, who is absent due to an undisclosed illness. As a wildcard entry, Takaaki Nakagami aims to bring positive results, benefitting from previous laps on the new track surface. Despite the struggles, Honda is hopeful for Nakagami's performance as the weekend unfolds.
- •Joan Mir is out due to a mystery illness.
- •Takaaki Nakagami is Honda's wildcard for the event.
- •Nakagami has prior experience on the new track surface.
- •The weekend's outcome may influence Honda's championship positioning.
- 10:46 AMAutosport — The hidden potential in Honda's home MotoGP weekend
"The Honda MotoGP team's Japanese Grand Prix weekend did not exactly get off to a flyer. The manufacturer came into Motegi with worries around its factory rider, Joan Mir, who remains absent due to a mystery illness. So it was looking to its wildcard, Takaaki Nakagami, for some cheer. After all, the test rider had the advantage of laps on the new track surface under his belt. Those hopes ...Keep reading
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