HRC sign Jonathan Rea as WorldSBK test rider
Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) has secured the services of Jonathan Rea for the 2026 Motul FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK). The most successful rider in WorldSBK history, Rea will come out of retirement to serve as test rider for HRC’s 2026 campaign, supporting the new rider lineup of Somkiat Chantra and Jake Dixon. Rea’s new role reunites him with Honda after eleven years with Kawasaki and Yamaha teams in WorldSBK.
After spending the 2008 season in the World Supersport Championship with Honda, Rea started his WorldSBK career in 2009, also with Honda. Before his record-breaking stint with Kawasaki, the Ulsterman spent six seasons on the CBR1000RR for the Ten Kate-run Honda team, achieving 15 race wins and 27 other podiums, 10 fastest race laps and 4 poles. His best championship placing on a Honda was third in 2014.
The 38-year-old’s decision to return to WorldSBK will bring unparalleled experience to the HRC Superbike project, with the six-time champion saying he’s committed to strengthening Honda’s presence in the category. Despite factory backing and some talented riders in their team, Honda’s last race win in WorldSBK was achieved by Nicky Hayden back in 2016.
“From the moment HRC shared their plans and the new role they envision for me, I was immediately excited to understand how I could contribute,” Rea said. “It feels like a real full-circle moment to return to Honda; the manufacturer with which I gained my initial WorldSBK experience and my very first race win in the category. Although my role will be quite different from what I’ve been used to as a full-time racer, I’m highly motivated to embrace this new chapter.
“My aim is to bring all the experience and knowledge I’ve gained throughout my career and use it to support the development of the CBR1000RR-R and the Honda HRC factory team in the best possible way.
“I’m also very happy to be working again with Chris Pike, the Honda HRC test team project manager and my former crew chief, with whom I share great memories and mutual respect. Working together as a team, I’m confident we can build something truly positive for the future. I can’t wait to get started.”
Yuji Mori – Honda HRC Team Manager, welcomed Rea back to Honda: “Having the most successful rider in WorldSBK history join us in a role as important as HRC test rider is truly significant for all of us and, we believe, for the series itself.
“Jonathan began his international career with Honda, and to see him return now with such a wealth of knowledge and experience makes this collaboration especially valuable and underlines our full and continued commitment to the Superbike project.
“His contribution will play an important part as we keep developing our programme and work towards bringing Honda back to the level we are aiming for in the championship.”
