– Maverick Vinales will miss the Spanish Grand Prix next weekend after his shoulder operation. The Spaniard recently had to abandon the race weekend in the USA after the first Friday practice session.
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A screw that had been inserted after his crash at the Sachsenring last year had come loose. It was removed in early April during a procedure.
Originally, the plan was to be fit again by Jerez. However, recovery is still ongoing. “It’s naturally disappointing not to be able to compete in Jerez this weekend,” says Vinales.
“It’s an important race for me and the first of my home races this season. But I know my body well, and right now, recovery is the top priority.”
“So that I can come back in the best possible condition for the rest of the season. Everything is developing in the right direction, and the goal is to be ready for Le Mans.” The French Grand Prix takes place on May 10.
The Tech3 KTM team wanted to nominate Pol Espargaro as a replacement in Jerez. However, the test rider injured his hand and will therefore not be able to ride. Tech3 will thus only compete with Enea Bastianini in Jerez.
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“It’s never an easy decision,” says KTM Motorsport Director Pit Beirer, “to start with only one bike, but in this case, it’s the right decision. Maverick needs to be given the time to fully recover.”
“Unfortunately, Pol’s injury has ruled out the most obvious replacement option. Together with Tech3, we have carefully considered what is possible for Jerez, but we also have to keep the overall picture of the project in mind.”
Tech3 CEO Günther Steiner adds: “We have looked at the alternatives, but we also have to make sensible decisions that are right for the team and the overarching project.”
“The positive thing is that Enea goes into this weekend with good momentum from Austin. That gives us a solid foundation to build on as the European part of the season begins.”
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Bastianini recently finished third in the sprint and sixth in the Grand Prix in Austin. In the team standings, Tech3 is in eighth place after three race weekends.
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