Repsol Honda’s Pol Espargaro is eagerly anticipating MotoGP’s return to Australia’s Phillip Island this weekend.

The Spaniard claimed a Moto2 victory on the island back in 2013 and has a highest placing of fifth in the premier class - while on the Tech3 Yamaha three years later. With both the unique circuit layout and consistently changing weather forecasts, the Island is renowned for throwing up both challenges and surprises in equal measure, something Espargaro is keen to get his teeth into for round 18.

“I am looking forward to riding at Phillip Island again,” Espargaro confirmed ahead of touchdown in Australia. “It’s where I took probably the best win of my career in Moto2.

“It’s a really unique layout there and you always see a big group of riders battling.

“Returning home, seeing my family and doing some good training was a welcome break after three very busy weeks of racing. It hasn’t been easy the last few races but the last few races of the year have some different tracks. Let’s see what’s possible, with what some forecasts are saying, anything can happen!”