Red Bull KTM Test Rider, Pol Espargaro, will return to Grand Prix racing this weekend at the Czech Republic Grand Prix.

Pol Espargaro will return to MotoGP this weekend as a replacement rider in the Red Bull KTM Tech3 garage.

The Spaniard will take the place of the recovering Maverick Vinales, who underwent surgery on a fractured collarbone at the start of the week.

"Obviously, it’s never a good thing to take part in a GP because you have to replace an injured rider," Espargaro said.

"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."

Nicolas Goyon, Red Bull KTM Tech3 Team Manager, added: "The last race of the first half of the season will be held at the Brno circuit, as MotoGP returns to Czechia for the first time since 2020. This event used to be one of the busiest rounds of the year, so we are expecting many supporters this weekend.

"Maverick Viñales will miss the Czech GP as we announced it earlier this week. In order to keep things moving forward for the KTM project, it has been decided with the factory that Pol Espargaro will replace him this week.

"An old friend returns to our garage, we have known Pol for many years, from his MotoGP debuts to his last full season in 2023, so we are glad to welcome him back. Let’s see where Pol is able to place his KTM on the brand new tarmac of Brno."