In order to find and develop riders from the Asia region to compete at the highest levels, Honda is taking part in the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) MotoGP World Championship in the Moto2 class as IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia and the Moto3 class as Honda Team Asia. The riders who will represent these teams in the 2023 season have been announced by Honda.
Ai Ogura and Somkiat Chantra will continue to represent Idemitsu Honda Team Asia. Both have improved greatly over the course of the current campaign, providing historical moments like Chantra's triumph at Mandalika or the 1-2 at the Red Bull Ring. Ogura is still vying for the 2022 World championship with four races remaining.
Mario Suryo Aji and Taiyo Furusato will remain for a second season with Honda Team Asia. Both deserve the confidence to continue for another season because they are perfectly carrying out the previously established training regimen.
Both teams' team manager, Hiroshi Aoyama, will remain in that position. Ai Ogura expressed his happiness at getting another chance the next season with the same setup.
According to a statement, Ai Ogura remarked, “I’m happy to have another chance next season, with the same structure. I want to thank the Team, my sponsors, and all the people to support me. This year we’re fighting for the Championship. We’re fully focused on achieving this objective. My challenge is to continue improving every race, every session, as much as possible, to be ready to do another step ahead,”
Somkiat Chantra asserted, “I’m proud to continue for a fifth season with the Idemitsu Honda Team Asia. In 2022 I feel that I have improved a lot in riding and managing the races, living unforgettable moments like my victory in Indonesia. I’m sure in 2023 I’ll be ready to fight for the Championship,”