With Red Bull KTM Tech 3’s Miguel Oliveira ruled out until February next year after undergoing a successful right shoulder operation, the team have called upon 2020 rider and current monday.com American Racing Moto2™ contender Iker Lecuona to stand in at the final round in Valencia.
Lecuona was confirmed to move up to MotoGP™ with Red Bull KTM Tech 3 during the flyaway rounds. However, the Spaniard is set to make his premier class debut a few days earlier than expected in Valencia, as he’ll take the place of Oliveira for the weekend’s race before continuing his adaptation on Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 at the official Valencia Test. Last year at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo, Lecuona scored his maiden Grand Prix podium – so the circuit holds good memories for the 19-year-old.
Replacing Lecuona at monday.com American Racing will be MotoAmerica Supersport rider and former Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup rider Sean Dylan Kelly. The American will be making his debut in the intermediate class World Championship and will lineup alongside compatriot Joe Roberts in Valencia.
Iker Lecuona: "To have this opportunity in my home Grand Prix is a proud moment for me. We must enjoy this beautiful experience, but above all learn as much as possible for the future. All this would not have been possible without the help and encouragement of Hervé Poncharal, as well as Eitan Butbul and the American Racing Team amazing crew, they helped me to grow as a rider and as a person. I also want to wish the best possible recovery to Oliveira, who will be my teammate next season. I will give my best in Valencia as I always do".
Sean Dylan Kelly: “I’ve been waiting for this moment my whole career and I have a good idea of what I am getting into. I am just going to learn and enjoy the competition and do my best. I’m really grateful to Eitan with American Racing Team KTM for believing in me, for giving me this chance. Also, thanks to John and Chris Ulrich of Team Hammer for not just having me race on their team, but for also helping me along the path.”