Thai Honda Celebrates Historic Achievement: 'Kong-Somkiat' Chantra Becomes First Thai Rider to Compete Full-Time in MotoGP—A Dream Realized for the Thai People!

Thai Honda, a leader in the Thai motorsport industry, proudly announces a historic milestone: "Kong" Somkiat Chantra will be the first Thai rider to compete full-time in the prestigious MotoGP championship for the 2025 season. This achievement highlights the unwavering dedication of the "Honda Race to the Dream" project, which focuses on providing opportunities and fostering the development of new riders on the global stage.

Alongside this announcement, a special edition racing livery for Kong's bike has been unveiled, designed for his upcoming home race. Thai Honda invites fans to support Thai riders during the "PT Grand Prix of Thailand," which will take place at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram from October 25-27. Through various activities, fans will have the opportunity to engage and experience the excitement of this global event.

Thai Honda Co., Ltd., in collaboration with the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of Thailand (FMSCT), Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), Idemitsu Honda LCR, and Chang International Circuit, recently held a press conference to celebrate a significant achievement in Thai motorsports. This event highlighted the support for "Kong" Somkiat Chantra, who will make history as the first Thai rider to participate in the MotoGP World Championship for the 2025 season.

The press conference featured several distinguished figures, including Dr. Alaksh Phornprapha, Chairman of Thai Honda Co., Ltd.; Mr. Yuichi Shimizu, President of Thai Honda Co., Ltd.; Mr. Precha Lalun, Deputy Governor for Professional Sports and Boxing at the Sports Authority of Thailand; Mr. Thongchai Wongsawan, President of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of Thailand; Mr. Newin Chidchob, President of Chang International Circuit; Mr. Yuzuru Ishikawa, General Manager of the Motorcycle Racing Division at Honda Racing Corporation (HRC); Mr. Lucio Cecchinello, Team Manager of Idemitsu Honda LCR; and Mr. Yuichi Kujo, President of Apollo Oil (Thailand) Co., Ltd. All attendees expressed their commitment to providing comprehensive support for Thai riders.

Chantra began his dream of becoming a world-class rider by joining the Honda Racing School in 2007 at the age of nine. Within just five years, he garnered numerous accolades in motorcycle road racing in Thailand. This success led to an opportunity from Dorna, the organizer of global motorcycle racing, to enter the Road to MotoGP pathway through the Asia Talent Cup, a program aimed at developing young Asian riders.

In 2014, he advanced to compete at the world level in the Moto2 category in 2019 with the Idemitsu Honda Team Asia, continually enhancing his skills. Somkiat achieved his first victory in the World Grand Prix in 2022 in Indonesia. Since then, he has excelled, securing a total of six podium finishes and two victories. This impressive performance led to a significant opportunity, culminating in a contract with Idemitsu Honda LCR, a top team in MotoGP. In the 2025 season, he will make history as the first Thai rider to compete in the premier class, reaching the pinnacle of the "World Grand Prix" competition.

Mr. Yuichi Shimizu, President of Thai Honda Co., Ltd., stated, “Thai Honda is incredibly excited about the return of the Thai GP in Buriram, as this is the event of the year that everyone has been eagerly awaiting. It is a point of pride for Thai Honda to be part of this competition. We are ready to deliver an exceptional experience to Thai fans with two riders from the Honda Race to the Dream project participating: 'Kong' Somkiat Chantra in the Moto2 category and 'Gonz' Tatchakorn Buasri in the Moto3. We have also prepared exciting activities for fans to enjoy and to experience world-class motorsport together with us. Today, we take immense pride in congratulating the tremendous achievement of 'Kong' Somkiat Chantra, who has been given the opportunity to compete in MotoGP next year, making him the first Thai rider to participate at the highest level. Somkiat Chantra is truly a hero for the Thai people, and this is a source of pride for the entire nation.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Sports Authority of Thailand, Buriram International Circuit, the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of Thailand, our sponsors, and the media who have all contributed to making this success possible. Additionally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) and Idemitsu Honda LCR for believing in Kong Somkiat Chantra as he pursues his dreams. Thai Honda stands ready to support him, and we will do our utmost to ensure his success in MotoGP.

The success of the Honda Race to the Dream project does not signify the end of our efforts. Thai Honda is dedicated to investing resources and efforts to develop new riders. We look forward to discovering and nurturing the next generation of stars who will follow in the footsteps of Somkiat Chantra. Thank you for your continued support and confidence in Honda. Together, we will continue to create new chapters in history.”

At the same time, the press conference surprised attendees with the unveiling of a special edition racing bike for the upcoming home race, the "PT Grand Prix of Thailand," featuring a unique design created by Honda R&D Southeast Asia. This design was inspired by "Kong" Somkiat Chantra's desire to express his identity as much as possible. Born in the Year of the Tiger, he named the bike "Roaring Tiger." In Thai culture, "tiger" symbolizes someone who stands out, while "roaring" signifies a declaration of strength and potential.

The design of the tiger pattern on the racing bike is based on three keywords: Strong, Dynamic, and Powerful. The color scheme incorporates black, white, and red to evoke an aggressive and powerful feel. The number 35 continues from the previous design, reflecting Thai identity and blending with the vibrant colors. This design also includes elements representing Chonburi, incorporating motifs from the city of Pattaya. Now, this "Tiger" is ready to pursue victory in the Thai GP with "Kong" Somkiat Chantra.

Honda is poised to provide Thai speed enthusiasts with an array of engaging activities at the upcoming Thai GP 2024. Key highlights will include an EV Shuttle service, transporting motorsport fans from the Welcome Area using Honda EV bikes. Additionally, the Honda stand will offer a comprehensive cheering experience for fans to collectively support Honda riders.

Special features will encompass an air-conditioned Honda Exhibition Hall, showcasing legendary World Champion racing vehicles from around the globe, including both on-road and off-road models. Fans will also have the opportunity to use the Moto Trainer, simulating the experience of riding like a professional.

A Meet & Greet session is scheduled for the evening of Saturday, October 26, featuring MotoGP riders Luca Marini, Joan Mir, Johann Zarco, and Takaaki Nakagami, along with beloved Thai riders "Kong" Somkiat Chantra and "Gonz" Tatchakorn Buasri.

Furthermore, the Honda Carnival will be filled with activities from Honda Wing Center, Honda BigBike, and CUB House, including a concert by The Joker Family, alongside a selection of local delicacies from Buriram, live music, and live football broadcasts. Special offerings for BigBike fans will include air-conditioned camper vans and various test rides of Honda BigBike and CUB House models. 

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