Pol Espargaro Returns to MotoGP with Red Bull KTM Tech3 at Brno, Replacing Injured Viñales

Pol Espargaro makes a surprise race return with Red Bull KTM Tech3 at Brno, stepping in for Maverick Viñales after shoulder surgery.

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Red Bull KTM Tech3 is bringing out both of its KTM RC16 machines this weekend at the Brno circuit, and there’s a familiar name back in the mix, Pol Espargaro. The veteran Spaniard will step in for Maverick Viñales, who is currently recovering from successful shoulder surgery after a crash at the Sachsenring.

Viñales suffered the injury during a wet qualifying session last weekend in Germany. Following a Q2 high-side, the #12 underwent surgery on his left shoulder in Italy and is now on the road to recovery. With the 2025 MotoGP summer break just around the corner, Red Bull KTM Tech3 turned to none other than Pol Espargaro to keep their momentum going into Round 12.

Espargaro, now 34, is no stranger to KTM, having been a factory rider in previous seasons and heavily involved in the development of the RC16. He’ll line up alongside Enea Bastianini, who himself has just bounced back from an appendicitis episode.

The last time MotoGP raced at Brno was back in 2020, where Espargaro was fighting for the podium after qualifying in P6. Speaking ahead of his return, Pol said: “Obviously, it’s never a good thing to take part in a GP because you have to replace an injured rider. So, first of all, I want to wish a speedy recovery to Maverick. I will try to do my best this weekend, also trying to help as much as possible my teammates and the technicians. 

“It’s been a long time since our last visit to Brno, which is a fantastic track. The last time we raced here I felt super-good in my best period with KTM so let’s see how it is with the new surface. I don’t have any expectations apart from enjoying the weekend and having some useful days for our project,” he said in a statement.

Red Bull KTM Team Manager Aki Ajo also shared his thoughts: “We’re pleased that Maverick’s surgery has gone well so far and he now has a few extra weeks to get better and prepared for our home race in August. Thanks to Pol for stepping in and making sure our MotoGP effort can be at full strength for this Grand Prix. We have been making progress every weekend up to this half season point, and Pol obviously has deep knowledge of the bike, our work, the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team and Brno itself.”