Takaaki Nakagami Announces MotoGP Retirement and Transition to HRC Development Rider by 2025

Takaaki Nakagami announces retirement from MotoGP racing

Nakagami to leave LCR team, set to join HRC as a test rider starting 2025

In 2025, Takaaki Nakagami is set to transition into a development role with Honda Racing Corporation, paving the path for Somkiat Chantra to join LCR Honda as a MotoGP rider in the upcoming season. Recent updates have officially confirmed Chantra's position with LCR.

Nakagami announced his decision to retire from MotoGP racing after the 2024 season, expressing heartfelt thanks to his supporters for their unwavering encouragement.

I also want to express my gratitude towards IDEMITSU and HONDA for their enduring backing. Starting in 2025, I will take part in the advancement of HRC machinery. Having the opportunity to apply my seven years of MotoGP experience is truly satisfying, and I am thrilled to embark on this new journey.

In conclusion, I'd like to express my gratitude to Lucio and the entire LCR team. Being with them has given me a sense of belonging, akin to family, and the time spent has been nothing short of amazing. They will forever hold a special place in my heart!

Following his victories in two Moto2 competitions, Nakagami ascended to the premier-class in 2018 and has dedicated his entire seven-year MotoGP tenure exclusively to LCR.

Nakagami narrowly missed securing a podium finish multiple times and was considered a favorite to win following his pole position qualification at the 2020 Aragon Grand Prix. Unfortunately, he fell from the lead during the first lap due to a crash.

The 32-year-old from Japan, who had earlier expressed a desire to remain with LCR as his primary option, will now transition to a role as a test rider for HRC in Japan and will also compete in select MotoGP races as a wild-card entrant.

"We're not saying farewell, but rather 'we'll meet again soon'," stated team leader Lucio Cecchinello. "Our connection with Nakagami is far from over; it's merely evolving, since he'll remain a part of the HRC MotoGP development program."

The last seven years have marked an important era for the LCR clan. Taka's exceptional speed and skill on the track, combined with his remarkable human qualities, have made collaborating with him a truly delightful experience. His courteousness, benevolence, and expert demeanor have deeply impacted everyone at LCR and HRC, leaving us eternally thankful.

Moving forward, his role in HRC is going to be crucial, and I'm eager to have him here. The entire MotoGP community holds Taka in high regard and admiration, a sentiment that transcends all else. Thank you for your dedication and the moments shared with us, Taka!

Nakagami will be retiring alongside Aleix Espargaro from Aprilia at the conclusion of this season, transitioning to a test riding role with Honda. Espargaro is set to join HRC's European test team, working alongside Stefan Bradl.

Heading into this weekend's Aragon MotoGP, the Japanese racer is currently positioned 20th in the global championship rankings, tied in points with Repsol Honda, and trailing just a single point behind his team-mate, the leading Honda contender Johann Zarco.

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