Aleix Espargaro has officially withdrawn from Sunday's main Grand Prix race at Mandalika due to persistent physical discomfort and extreme fatigue. The Honda HRC test rider was initially called up to substitute for the medically unfit Joan Mir during the Indonesian Grand Prix weekend.
The decision was confirmed in an official team statement released on Sunday morning prior to the Warm Up session. Honda HRC Castrol stated that the combination of his lengthy rehabilitation period from back surgery earlier this year and the severe physical demands of the Mandalika circuit led to the withdrawal of bike No. 41.
Behind this strategic decision lies the Japanese manufacturer's urgent priority to develop its new 850cc prototype machine ahead of the major 2027 technical regulations overhaul. Preserving the physical condition of their primary test rider became paramount for upcoming development milestones.
Reflecting on his struggles after finishing last in Saturday's Sprint, Espargaro admitted, "My forearms have become very sore. Let's see how I feel when I get up tomorrow, but bearing in mind that we have to do a test very soon, it's possible that I won't take part in the race."
With Takaaki Nakagami sidelined by injury, Espargaro remains the sole spearhead for Honda's crucial 850cc testing program scheduled for 14-15 October at Sepang. Uncertainty still surrounds who might deputize for Mir at Phillip Island if the Spaniard remains unfit. Read our in-depth paddock analysis for all the latest updates.
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