Honda Taps Jonathan Rea As Replacement Rider

Honda has chosen Jonathan Rea to act as a replacement rider for some upcoming MotoGP competitions. Rea will be making his debut in the MotoGP World Championship testing the Honda RC213V. He will join the team for the test in Brno at the Czech Grand Prix, and also for the two-day test event in Aragon on September 4 and 5.

The Irish rider will be replacing Casey Stoner, who is currently facing surgery on an injured ankle. If Stoner is not able to return to the team in time for the final rounds at Aragon and Misano at the end of September, then Rea will take his place.

"I'm very sympathetic to Casey Stoner and best regards for his recovery," said Rea. "But for me this is a great opportunity to ride one of the best bikes in the world. It's not every day you get that opportunity. I'm very happy that Honda has put some trust in me and I'm very excited for sure."

The motorsports world is familiar with Rea, who rides for Honda in the World Superbike. None of the remaining MotoGP races coincide with SBK events, so he will be able to compete in both if necessary.