The Idemitsu Honda Team Asia riders find themselves in completely different situations to face the first event of the 2023 season. The current Moto2 world vice-champion, Ai Ogura, is still recovering from his left wrist after being injured and operated on a few weeks ago, and will therefore miss the race.
No date has yet been announced for his return but the Japanese driver is aiming for Argentina in a week. For his part, Somkiat Chantra had a perfect pre-season and arrived in Portimão stronger than ever.
Hiroshi Aoyama, Team Director: “ We worked hard this winter with the riders, mainly on a physical level with motorcycles, gyms and bicycles. We also carried out some private tests to be ready and in good condition for the debut. But we have to deliver some bad news. As we reported last week, Ogura suffered an injury during this training period. Unfortunately, he will not be ready for this first round. The positive thing is that the operation on the left wrist was successful and the healing process is going well. We hope to see him back on track as soon as possible. For its part, Chantra has prepared itself perfectly this winter, notably by carrying out a good private testing program; I think he could get a good result here in Portimão. »
Ai Ogura #79: “ Unfortunately I can't race in Portugal. A few weeks ago I fell in training and injured my left wrist, requiring a longer recovery than expected. I prefer not to take any risks and not do this race, to try to be ready as soon as possible, probably for Argentina. This is our plan now. We'll see when I can resume. »
