LCR Honda rookie Somkiat Chantra has undergone successful surgery for arm pump following his retirement from the Spanish Grand Prix due to the condition.
The Jerez circuit, known for causing arm pump issues due to its tight layout, saw Chantra forced to retire after 14 laps on Sunday. The Thai rider, who is MotoGP’s first representative from Thailand, had been battling with forearm compartment syndrome, a condition that limits blood flow in the arm and reduces strength and control.
This same issue famously cost Fabio Quartararo the win in the 2022 Spanish GP when he dropped from first to 13th.
LCR confirmed the surgery took place on April 30 at Hospital Universitari Dexeus in Barcelona, conducted by Dr. Xavier Mir. Chantra has already been discharged and is currently undergoing rehabilitation in Barcelona.
“Somkiat is now focused on his recovery ahead of the upcoming French Grand Prix,” read the team’s statement. “He will have a medical check-up next Tuesday to determine if he is fit to return to racing.”
Despite the condition, Chantra did participate in Monday’s post-race test at Jerez, though his track time was limited to the afternoon session.
The 2025 season has been challenging for Chantra so far, with his best result being 16th at the Americas Grand Prix. He is yet to score a point in the premier class.
Chantra is the second rider this week to undergo surgery for arm pump, following KTM’s Pedro Acosta, who also had the procedure and is targeting a return at Le Mans next weekend.
