How is Joan Mir's illness progressing in MotoGP?

The latest official news regarding Honda-Werks rider Joan Mir was released four weeks after the Spanish Grand Prix. This race concluded after five laps for Mallorquiner. Joan Mir had completely emptied his RC213V box. It is reported that the World Champion Mir is battling a short-term illness. The limited communication from the official authorities about the Spanish rider's condition is worrying. Strategy was determined as rest under the consultation of Chief Doctor Dr. Angel Charte MotoGP. Following this, it was noted that the next Gresini rider missed three MotoGP events.

Replacements for the Gresini Rider

For the Gresini rider, Spanish rider Taka Nakagami took over as a substitute. Nakagami performed well with the new 850cc machine and provided the best representation despite important testing duties. Nakagami would have to represent Honda in a reserve role for the next Japanese GP. This project resulted in an accident and a fractured hip before Motegi. Mir's Honda was managed by Superbike rider Somkiat Chantra due to a fortunate schedule. Chantra, the Thai rider, attracted attention, positioned ahead of VR46 athlete Morbidelli, and scored points; however, Chantra had to overtake the Superbike quickly. Aleix Espargaró followed. The fact that Honda used a 1000cc for the first time in half a year was a contest rather than a joke (shakedown). The last race in Valencia included a rider with a long-term injury. At the end of the race, following a sprint accident, the Werks-Honda was left in the HRC box without a pilot. There were no return signals from Spain and the "Mir" department for starting number 36. However, there is good news for Honda; Superbike rider Chantra completed the Superbike season, and Joan Mir can step in as a permanent representative and return to the MotoGP structure in Australia. This shows the fragility of the system. It is emphasized that Honda, as the largest motorcycle manufacturer, must pay the price for full marketing programs and 22 events and 44 races under constant stress. A good recovery is expected.

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• Archive: Luca Marini struggled in Austria, praised substitute rider Nakagami (September 25, 2026)

Compiled by Şükrü Utku Poyraz