Jake Dixon will get his first taste of MotoGP machinery at Silverstone’s British Grand Prix next week partnering Valentino Rossi at Petronas Yamaha.

Dixon’s premier class opportunity - as stand-in for the injured Franky Morbidelli - comes in the wake of Cal Crutchlow’s call up by the factory Monster Energy team thanks to Maverick Viñales’ departure, providing two British talents on the Silverstone grid for home fans to support, and both on YZR-M1’s.

Dixon’s replacement in the Moto2 seat is yet to be confirmed with Petronas Sprinta Racing set to announce the Silverstone substitute shortly.

“It’s been a lifelong goal to make it into the MotoGP class,” Dixon said.

“So to get the opportunity to do it for one GP this year, on the bike that I always wanted to – the Yamaha YZR-M1 – and to do it at home is something really special.

“It is going to be very difficult but I’m looking forward to jumping on the big bike, even though it’s different, and it’s very exciting! I haven’t been able to sleep because I’ve just been thinking about it. It’s a dream come true,” he admitted before discussing his plans for his home GP.

“I’m going to give my all to do the best I can for the team and I want to say a massive thank you to them for this opportunity. Also to Yamaha for believing in me as well.

“I don’t have any targets, I’m just aiming to enjoy it and gather all the experience I can. I just want to wish Franco a speedy recovery and that we can see him back at the track soon.”