Maverick Vinales will ride a MotoGP bike for the first time since July's German Grand Prix. The Tech3 rider will take part in the Pirelli tyre test at the Red Bull Ring on Monday, a crucial step to assess the condition of his injured left shoulder.
The shoulder injury originally occurred at last year's German GP. Vinales underwent surgery, but his recovery has been a series of comebacks and setbacks. This year, after pre-season testing and the Thai and Brazilian GPs, he was forced to miss the United States round for further surgery to remove a loose screw in the shoulder. He returned at Barcelona and contested six grands prix, but failed to finish inside the top 10 in any of them. He stepped away again after the German GP on 12 July.
Over the summer break, Vinales intensified his physical preparation. On Friday, he rode a road-going sports bike at the Circuit d'Alcarras near Lleida to build strength. Feeling positive, he spoke to KTM, which will prepare an RC16 for him at the post-Austrian GP Pirelli test. Maverick Vinales hopes this test will gauge whether he can return at the Japanese GP on 4 October.
If the test goes well, Vinales could target a comeback at Motegi. However, a return at one of the following rounds remains an alternative. Ultimately, only riding a MotoGP bike will allow him to determine if his rehabilitation has been sufficient.
Meanwhile, Vinales' future in MotoGP is uncertain. The 31-year-old, in his 11th premier class season, does not have a seat for 2027. Talks with KTM and Tech3 failed to reach an agreement. Tech3 has signed Luca Marini and Australian youngster Senna Agius, while KTM's factory team will field Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio.
The decision to test in Austria is a bold move. Vinales must prove his shoulder can withstand the physical demands of a MotoGP bike. If successful, he could return to Tech3 for the remainder of the season, even without a guaranteed future.
For MotoGP fans, this is a moment to anticipate. Seeing Vinales back on track is a hope, but also a concern. Shoulder injuries are serious, and a rushed comeback could be detrimental. However, Vinales' fighting spirit is commendable. Monday's test will be an initial indicator.
If he passes the test at the Red Bull Ring, we might see him at Motegi. If not, he must be patient and continue strengthening his shoulder. One thing is certain: Vinales does not want to end the season without contributing to his team.
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