In a race that saw the Moto3 riders tackle unpredictable conditions, including a heavy rain shower, it was Leopard Racing’s Adrian Fernandez who was the top Honda rider at their home race.

Despite losing some places on the start, Fernandez was able to bring himself back into contention as the rain fell at Motegi. The Spaniard was able to enjoy a battle with team-mate David Almansa, which cost him some time and meant he could not challenge for a podium in the final laps – ultimately crossing the finish line in fifth.

Luca Lunetta (SIC58 Squadra Corse) was also able to make his way through the field and make some good progress in the early stages of the 17-lap race. Lunetta battled hard to keep himself in the main group of riders on track and ultimately took the chequered flag in ninth.

Further back, team-mate Stefano Nepa was 15^th, while the GRYD – MLav Racing duo of Marco Morelli and Eddie O’Shea were 17^th and 18^th respectively. Riccardo Rossi, the sole Rivacold Snipers Team representative in the race, was 20^th.

There was heartbreak for both Almansa and Honda Team Asia’s Taiyo Furusato. Almansa, who had to start from 24^th after a grid penalty, powered through the field and into podium contention at the halfway point. The Leopard Racing rider did start to lose some time in the final stages of the race and ultimately crashed out of fifth place on the penultimate lap.

Home hero Furusato was also racing in podium contention and looked like he had the potential to challenge for the win. Unfortunately, he crashed out of the race on lap 9. Team-mate Arbi Aditama’s race came to an end on the first lap following a Turn 3 crash.

Honda’s Moto3 riders head straight into the next round, which will be the Grand Prix of Indonesia held at the Pertamina Mandalika Circuit (3-5 October).