Overview
- Honda confirmed the six-time WorldSBK champion will step in at the Portuguese Round after retiring from full-time racing at the end of 2025.
- The outing is his first race on Honda machinery since 2014 and follows recent test work at Jerez and Portimão, including sessions last week.
- Team statements say Dixon’s recovery is progressing positively and without delay after fractures sustained at the Phillip Island test.
- Crash reports Dixon’s first appearance could come at Assen next month, meaning his WorldSBK debut will not be at Portimão.
- Somkiat Chantra is named to ride alongside Rea subject to a pre-round medical check, while Portimão also marks the site of Rea’s 2008 debut and last Honda win in 2014.