Struggling MotoGP Rookie Ruled Out of French GP
LCR Honda rider Somkiat Chantra has been ruled out of this weekend’s French MotoGP at Le Mans due to injury
Struggling MotoGP rookie Somkiat Chantra will take no part in the French MotoGP after the Thai rider was advised to miss this weekend’s sixth round of the season.
Chantra is the only rookie without a points finish to his name so far in 2025, in fact, the former Moto2 star is the only full-time rider not to have scored a single point.
The 26-year-old was forced to retire from the Spanish Grand Prix at Jerez after just 14 laps due to arm pump, and despite undergoing successful surgery, the LCR Honda rider has been ruled out of this weekend by Dr. Xavier Mir, who performs regular surgeries for MotoGP riders.
Chantra was one of two riders that underwent arm pump surgery after Jerez, with KTM’s Pedro Acosta also suffering with the injury, although the Spaniard will be in action at Le Mans.
A statement from LCR Honda said: “After a post-surgery check-up, Dr. Xavier Mir, who carried out the procedure, recommended allowing more time for Somkiat to regain full strength before returning to competition. While his rehabilitation is progressing well, he is not yet in suitable condition to race.
“The team fully supports Somkiat’s recovery process and looks forward to welcoming him back on track soon.”
While one rider has been ruled out, another is finally making his return as Miguel Oliveira will be back in action after missing the last three races. Oliveira’s return also means Yamaha will be at full strength for the first time since his collision with Fermin Aldeguer in Argentina.
Team Director Gino Borsoi said: “First and foremost, I‘m happy to welcome Miguel back - he‘s finally ready to race again. His season so far has been quite difficult, having missed three races due to a very unusual and serious injury.
“In many ways, Miguel‘s championship starts here in France. The work ahead of us involves helping him adapt physically and get up to speed with a bike that has evolved over the past months. The key now is patience and steady progress without added pressure.”
Prima Pramac will also don a special Alpine-themed livery for this weekend’s French GP, as the sports car manufacturer, which races in Formula 1, is a sponsor of the team and Le Mans signifies the home race for Alpine.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
