Jake Dixon could make 2026 MotoGP appearance for Honda thanks to key WSBK contract clause

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British Moto2 rider Jake Dixon is set to join Honda in World Superbikes in 2026 after failing to secure a seat in MotoGP.

The 29-year-old has been competing in the intermediate class since 2017 and established himself as a title contender in 2022. Winning six races and claiming 20 podiums in Moto2, Dixon achieved a best finish of fourth in 2023.

The Dover-born rider currently sits fifth in the Moto2 standings in 2025, 65 points behind championship leader Manu Gonzalez. He has been waiting for his opportunity to make the step to MotoGP, but he will miss out again in 2026.

Dixon was linked with Aprilia for next season as the Noale outfit faced losing Jorge Martin. The Spaniard had attempted to break his contract through an exit clause, but Dorna prevented Martin from leaving Aprilia, thus quietening the MotoGP rider market.

The premier class has not had a British rider since Cal Crutchlow, who retired from full-time competition in 2020. The wait will go on for another UK talent to break into MotoGP, but there is the chance that Dixon could make an appearance next season.

Jake Dixon could make substitute appearances for Honda in MotoGP in 2026 with WSBK contract clause

With his options limited and not wanting to stay in Moto2 any longer, Dixon looks set to join Honda in WSBK in 2026. According to journalist Neil Morrison, a clause in that contract allows him to make substitute appearances in MotoGP if one of Honda’s riders gets injured.

The Japanese giants currently have Aleix Espargaro and Takaaki Nakagami as test and reserve riders. But as Morrison notes, Dixon looks set to join their ranks for 2026.

He said via the Paddock Pass Podcast: “From what I’ve gathered, part of his contract to ride in Superbikes next year includes the option to deputise as a substitute rider for Honda’s MotoGP operation, should one of their full-time riders get injured.

“Which I think is another nice little carrot to dangle above him.”

Dixon has made two appearances in MotoGP, racing for Yamaha satellite team SRT at the 2021 British GP and Aragon GP. He finished 19th at his home race, before retiring at Motorland.

READ MORE: Everything to know about Honda from the MotoGP team’s riders to leadership

Honda have the last MotoGP seat to confirm for 2026

As the 2026 season nears closer, Honda have the final piece of the puzzle to confirm at their satellite team LCR.

Joan Mir and Luca Marini will stay with the factory team in 2026, while Johann Zarco will retain his seat at LCR for another two years. The Frenchman had been targeting a factory seat, but he was keen to stay put if he received equal machinery.

Zarco will get equal treatment with Mir and Marini, having effectively been Honda’s number one rider in 2025. The 35-year-old won the manufacturer their first race since 2023 at Le Mans.

Teammate Somkiat Chantra is set to be replaced after a dismal debut season in 2025. Dixon’s Moto2 rider Diogo Moreira is set to join LCR on a deal that could see him join HRC in 2027.