Maverick Viñales Returns for Catalan GP After Shoulder Surgery Recovery

Red Bull KTM Tech3 welcomes Spaniard back to MotoGP action following successful rehabilitation and medical clearance.

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Red Bull KTM Tech3 has officially confirmed the return of Maverick Vinales for this weekend’s Catalan Grand Prix after the Spaniard successfully completed his recovery from shoulder surgery.

Viñales has been sidelined since withdrawing from the Grand Prix of the Americas earlier this season due to complications related to a previous shoulder injury.

The Spaniard later underwent corrective surgery at the end of March before missing the rounds at Jerez and Le Mans as he focused fully on rehabilitation and regaining race fitness.

According to the team, Viñales recently completed an intensive recovery programme and received final medical clearance ahead of his highly anticipated return aboard the KTM RC16.

His comeback arrives at an important stage of the 2026 MotoGP season as Tech3 continues building momentum during the European leg of the championship.

During Viñales’ absence, teammate Enea Bastianini consistently secured top ten finishes, while Jonas Folger temporarily stepped in for the French GP at Le Mans.

With Viñales now returning alongside Bastianini, the team heads into Barcelona with a complete rider lineup once again.

“I’m happy to be back and finally returning to racing,” said Viñales.

“The last few weeks have not been easy. I’ve worked hard every day to recover, with close support from Red Bull at the APC, and I’m coming back in the best possible condition.”

“Now I feel strong and motivated to get back on the bike. I want to thank the team for their support and patience, and I couldn’t be more excited to be starting again at my home grand prix in Catalunya,” he added.

Meanwhile, Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager of Red Bull KTM Tech3, expressed his satisfaction at seeing Viñales return to action.

“We are very happy to welcome Maverick back this weekend. From the beginning, our priority has always been his health and ensuring he returns at 100%.”

“His experience and speed will be key for the team as we continue to make progress, and Catalunya is the perfect place for him to restart,” he said.

Goyon also thanked Jonas Folger for stepping in during the French Grand Prix, praising the German rider’s efforts during a challenging period for the team.