A severe rider shortage has forced Honda to fast-track Aleix Espargaro back into competitive action. According to Motorsport.com, the veteran test rider will make his return at the upcoming Indonesian Grand Prix to cover for mounting injuries within the squad.
The emergency call-up comes after Joan Mir was sidelined and Takaaki Nakagami suffered a fractured collarbone during a heavy crash at Motegi. With replacement options severely depleted, HRC had no choice but to alter their testing and development roadmap.
Initially, the Spanish rider was scheduled to undergo further spinal surgery on Monday following a lengthy five-month recovery from a heavy testing crash at Sepang in April. Although he recently tested a MotoGP prototype at Mugello, his physical readiness is still below pre-accident standards.
Complicating matters further, potential stand-in Somkiat Chantra is tied up with clashing commitments in WorldSBK, leaving the Japanese manufacturer with zero alternative options. The #41 rider has now been alerted to make the trip to Lombok for his first grand prix appearance since last season.
Beyond weekend results, Honda's primary focus remains finalizing the development of next year's 850cc machine under new technical regulations. Having a seasoned hand back on the bike is vital to keep the vital testing program moving forward before the post-season Valencia test.
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