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Jonathan Rea Returns to Honda as HRC Test Rider for 2026

Honda positions his development insight to push the CBR1000RR-R toward winning form.

Overview

  • Honda confirms Rea as an official HRC test rider for 2026 following his retirement from full-time WorldSBK.
  • His remit focuses on CBR1000RR-R development and on-track test work for the factory team.
  • He will work with HRC test team project manager Chris Pike, his former crew chief.
  • The program supports Honda’s 2026 factory lineup of Jake Dixon and Somkiat Chantra.
  • Rea is slated for selected Endurance World Championship races as Honda targets an end to its WorldSBK win drought dating to 2016.