Takaaki Nakagami made his debut in the MotoGP premier class with LCR in 2018 and has remained with the team ever since. As a Japanese rider, Nakagami benefits from the support of Idemitsu, which has helped secure his position within the team. However, his future with LCR has become somewhat uncertain in recent years due to the emergence of young Japanese talent Ai Ogura, who was rumored to be joining the team.
Despite the speculation surrounding Ai Ogura’s potential move to LCR, he has decided to stay in Moto2 for the 2023 season. Ogura has signed a deal to join the new MT Helmets squad, which is stepping up from Moto3 to take Pons Racing’s grid slots. While Ogura’s decision opens up new possibilities for his career, it also solidifies Nakagami’s position within LCR for the upcoming season.
Throughout Honda’s difficult 2023 campaign, Takaaki Nakagami has been the team’s most consistent rider, scoring 35 points. Despite the struggles faced by the team, Nakagami has managed to maintain a level of performance that has impressed both his team and Honda. This consistency has proven crucial in securing his place within the team for the 2024 season.
In a recent announcement, LCR confirmed that they will continue their partnership with Nakagami for the 2024 MotoGP season. Team boss Lucio Cecchinello expressed his pride in retaining Nakagami, highlighting his speed and ability to achieve good results. The continued collaboration between LCR and Nakagami suggests a successful working relationship and a shared vision for the future.
Takaaki Nakagami expressed his excitement to continue with LCR, stating that he feels like a part of the team’s family. He thanked LCR and Honda for the opportunity, emphasizing the strong synergy that exists between them. Nakagami understands the importance of hard work and is committed to further improving his skills in preparation for the future.
Nakagami will be joined by Johann Zarco at LCR for the 2024 MotoGP season. Zarco, who turned down a one-year extension with Ducati at Pramac, has signed a two-year factory contract with Honda. The addition of Zarco to the team strengthens LCR’s lineup and increases their chances of achieving their goals in the coming season.
With Nakagami’s future secured, most of the MotoGP grid for the 2024 season is now in place. The only remaining uncertainties lie in KTM’s effort to find a place for Pedro Acosta, the second seat at Gresini, and Marc Marquez’s final decision regarding his immediate future with Honda. As the puzzle pieces fall into place, anticipation mounts for the upcoming season and the battles that lie ahead on the racetrack.
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