Honda’s satellite team, LCR, took center stage in Bangkok on Saturday, with an exciting launch event signaling the approach of the 2025 MotoGP season. The team proudly unveiled the striking designs of their motorcycles during a lively presentation featuring MotoGP stars Johann Zarco and rookie Somkiat Chantra. Having just concluded the Sepang MotoGP test, both riders made their way to Thailand to participate in this significant occasion for their team.
Continuing a trend established in previous seasons, LCR opted for a split design in their Honda RC213Vs, adding a touch of individuality to their lineup. Johann Zarco, a seasoned racer, donned the traditional white-and-green colors sponsored by Castrol. Meanwhile, Somkiat Chantra, celebrating his status as Thailand’s first MotoGP racer, showcased the fresh white-and-red livery backed by Idemitsu, which previously adorned the bike of the now-retired Takaaki Nakagami. Castrol has been a faithful partner of the team, reinforcing their commitment by extending sponsorship to the factory HRC team this year. Idemitsu, a champion of nurturing Asian racing talent, has played a pivotal role in Chantra’s development and has a history of supporting Nakagami’s MotoGP journey.
With the launch of LCR’s new bikes, all teams in the MotoGP grid have now revealed their 2025 machines, paving the way for an unprecedented launch event set for the following day in Bangkok. This event provides fans the unique opportunity to interact with their favorite teams and racers. However, it was bittersweet for the occasion, as reigning champion Jorge Martin, Fabio di Giannantonio, and Raul Fernandez could not attend due to needing surgeries after sustaining injuries in separate crashes during the opening day of the Sepang test. Nevertheless, a majority of the 21 riders and 11 participating teams ensured a vibrant atmosphere filled with motorsport enthusiasm.
As excitement builds, LCR’s aspirations for the upcoming season hinge on Honda’s ability to rectify the performance issues that plagued the RC213V in recent years. The challenges of competing with European powerhouses, as well as Yamaha, loom large over the LCR squad. Last year, LCR exceeded expectations, finishing 10th in the team standings and surpassing the factory HRC team in terms of points scored. Zarco emerged as Honda’s standout performer, securing the manufacturer’s best result with an eighth-place finish at the Thai Grand Prix. This momentum sets a hopeful tone for the 2025 campaign, as the team looks forward to the upcoming two-day test in Buriram on February 12-13, marking their final opportunity to fine-tune their machines before the season opener at the same track in March.
The launch event in Bangkok not only signifies Honda’s commitment to improving performance and competition but also highlights the brand’s dedication to celebrating and fostering new talent in the MotoGP world. As LCR gears up for a challenging season ahead, all eyes will be on the team’s ability to leverage their impressive riders and solid partnership to make their mark in the competitive landscape of motorcycle racing.