Taka Nakagami Will Remain With LCR Honda For The 2024 MotoGP Season
In the dynamic world of MotoGP, rider contracts and team changes are part and parcel of the sport’s fabric. However, amidst the ever-shifting landscape of rider lineups, one name stands out as a constant in the LCR Honda garage: Takaaki Nakagami. The news is now official: Nakagami will continue his journey with LCR Honda for the 2024 MotoGP season, marking his fifth consecutive year with the team.
A Promising Debut and Years of Dedication
Nakagami’s debut in the premier class of motorcycle racing in 2018 was a momentous occasion. Stepping onto the MotoGP stage with LCR Honda, the Japanese rider showcased both talent and dedication, instantly making a mark in the fiercely competitive field. Over the past few years, Nakagami has not only honed his skills but also carved a place for himself in the LCR setup.
A Unique Partnership
His affiliation with LCR Honda isn’t just by chance; it’s a strategic partnership. The Japanese rider’s side of the garage, backed by Idemitsu, has been tailored specifically for a Japanese rider, providing Nakagami with a sense of job security and a unique place in the MotoGP world. However, recent seasons saw speculations regarding his position, primarily due to the emergence of promising young Japanese talent, Ai Ogura.
Proving his worth
Ogura, who races in Moto2, was repeatedly in link with a move to LCR Honda. Yet Nakagami’s consistency and performance, particularly during Honda’s challenging 2023 campaign, reaffirmed his position as one of the team’s most reliable riders. Scoring 35 points, he consistently delivered for the squad.
The Official Announcement
The suspense surrounding Nakagami’s future with LCR Honda has now been dispelled with the official announcement of their collaboration for the 2024 season. Team boss Lucio Cecchinello expressed his pride in retaining Nakagami, citing his speed and ability to secure strong results. The partnership aims to continue pushing the boundaries, with Nakagami’s wealth of experience with the bike making him a crucial asset.
Nakagami’s Gratitude and Determination
Nakagami himself echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the strong bond he shares with LCR Honda. He expressed his excitement about the upcoming season and thanked both the team and HRC for this opportunity. Nakagami’s commitment to working even harder in the future underscores his determination to succeed.
A New Partner for the 2024 Season
For the 2024 season, Nakagami will join forces with Johann Zarco at LCR Honda. Zarco’s decision to turn down an extension with Ducati at Pramac in favor of a two-year factory contract with Honda adds another layer of intrigue to the team’s lineup.
