Spanish motorcycle rider Joan Mir announced that he will not compete in the first two legs of the MotoGP Asian tour due to ongoing health problems. Missing the Austrian Grand Prix, Mir will not participate in the Japan and Indonesia Grand Prix based on doctors' advice. The exact cause of Mir's discomfort has not yet been determined.
Mir's recent health issues have begun affecting his schedule for the Asian section of the MotoGP season. The Honda rider reported that his energy levels were approximately "50 percent" of his normal capacity during the San Marino Grand Prix. Following the continuation of this situation, he was unable to participate in the Austrian Grand Prix last week. The latest statement from Honda confirmed that Mir's recovery time would be extended, and he would miss the Japan Grand Prix in October 2-4, followed immediately by the Indonesian Grand Prix.
Mir's Health Condition Continues
MotoGP Head Medical Officer Dr. Angel Charte stated that Mir's problem is not limited to the last few weeks. He indicated that the Spanish rider has experienced various symptoms affecting his energy levels and performance for several months, and the severity of these symptoms has increased recently. Doctors announced that Mir has undergone a series of tests at Dexeus University Hospital to reach a definitive diagnosis.
Dr. Charte made the following statement regarding his health condition:
Joan Mir has been experiencing symptoms that negatively affect his energy levels and performance for several months, with the severity increasing recently. The cause of this condition has not yet been determined.
Dr. Charte emphasized that Mir has undergone comprehensive tests due to the persistent nature and severity of the symptoms.
Due to the persistent nature and severity of the symptoms, Mir is undergoing comprehensive tests at Dexeus University Hospital to reach a definitive diagnosis.
Recommendation for a 15-Day Rest
Following the evaluations, Mir was advised not to compete or ride for the next 15 days. According to this medical recommendation, it was stated that Mir was not permitted to ride the motorcycle in either race.
Dr. Charte stated the medical recommendation:
The medical advice is for strict rest and the application of various treatments for the next 15 days due to the symptoms.
This decision immediately excluded the Japan and Indonesia Grand Prix from the schedule. The rider's health status will be updated following further tests.
Honda's Reserve Rider Plan
Honda announced that they will soon announce the reserve rider to replace Mir. Among the names Honda could consider for Mir include Aleix Espargaro and Cal Crutchlow. Espargaro suffered an accident during testing in Sepang earlier this year. Cal Crutchlow has competed several times for LCR Honda during Johann Zarco's injury in the 2026 season.
The replacement assignment for Mir will be for the factory Honda HRC team, not LCR Honda. For Honda, the most important issue at this stage is determining the cause of Joan Mir's ongoing health problems rather than when he will return to racing. What is certain is that the Spanish rider will not compete in the Japan and Indonesia Grand Prix. While doctors closely monitor Mir's health, how Honda will field a rider for the two races will be clarified in the coming days.
Compiled from 3 sources covering the same story.
Compiled by Şükrü Utku Poyraz
