Takaaki Nakagami will return to a MotoGP race weekend at next weekend's French Grand Prix.
Honda has announced that it will field a second wildcard rider this season at next weekend's French Grand Prix.
However, after Aleix Espargaro wildcarded at the Spanish Grand Prix, it is now Takaaki Nakagami's turn for an outing at Le Mans.
The Japanese rider has always ridden for Honda throughout his MotoGP career, since making his debut in the premier class in 2018 with LCR Honda.
During his time in MotoGP he participated in 123 races, scored 434 points and achieved one pole position.
At the conclusion of the 2024 MotoGP World Championship, Nakagami retired from full-time racing and signed with HRC to become a test and development rider.
A brief statement from Honda read: “Another set of hands to help out on our journey back to the top!
“Takaaki Nakagami and the Honda HRC Test Team will be on track at the French GP for the second wildcard of the season.
“Maximum effort from everyone involved.”
The 2025 French Grand Prix will be Nakagami's first race weekend in MotoGP since the 2024 Solidarity Grand Prix.
However, the 33-year-old did appear at the Jerez MotoGP Test earlier this week after the Spanish Grand Prix. He will now make his first race appearance as the HRC test and development rider, taking up Honda's second wildcard appearance for the year.
Due to its concession status, Honda can field up to six wildcards during the 2025 season.
The plans for the remaining wildcards are yet to be known, but with post-race tests in Aragon and Misano, it is likely those will be eyed as opportunities for Espargaro or Nakagami.
