Tech3 KTM has confirmed that Maverick Vinales will make his long-awaited return to MotoGP action this weekend at the Japanese Grand Prix in Motegi, following a lengthy recovery from a shoulder injury.
The ten-time MotoGP race winner has been sidelined since the summer break after a previously undiagnosed shoulder muscle tear was discovered. This led to Vinales missing the British, Aragon, San Marino, and Austrian Grands Prix as he focused on rehabilitation.
“I’m really happy to finally say that I’m coming back to racing,” Vinales said. “The last few months have been a long process, and I’ve worked hard every day to get to this point. I’m not at 100% yet, but I’m on the right path and I feel ready to take this next step. Motegi will be about building things up step by step, understanding where I am physically and getting my feeling back on the bike.”
Tech3 team manager Nicolas Goyon praised Vinales’ determination and recovery process: “Our priority has been to support his recovery and make sure that he returned when he was ready. It has been a longer road than we initially expected, but Maverick has worked extremely hard throughout his rehabilitation, and it is great to now see him ready to return to the grid.”
Vinales’ return also ends speculation that KTM might bench the Spaniard for the rest of the season. With his future for 2027 still undecided, Vinales is focused on regaining fitness and rhythm as he gets back to work with the team in Motegi.
Tech3 KTM is excited to have their full line-up back as they look ahead to the next phase of the MotoGP season.
