KTM test and reserve rider, Pol Espargaro, will continue to substitute for Maverick Viñales at Red Bull KTM Tech3 at the Austrian GP. The #44 will ride at KTM’s home round, flying the orange flag in front of the Austrian crowd as he makes his fourth consecutive appearance for the team this season.
Espargaro produced a standout performance at the San Marino GP, qualifying P12 on the grid, giving a clear indication of how far he has progressed since returning to Tech3.
Having stepped in for Viñales at Silverstone, Aragon, and Misano, the Spaniard arrives at KTM's home event with valuable race mileage under his belt, while Tech3 remains hopeful that Viñales will be fit to return when the championship heads overseas to Japan.
Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager, said: "It means a lot to have Pol with us for our factory's home race in Austria. Every time he gets back on the bike, he looks more comfortable and competitive, and Misano was another positive step forward. We know we can count on his experience and professionalism, and we're looking forward to seeing him race in front of the orange army this weekend. At the same time, our priority remains supporting Maverick's recovery, and we hope to have him back with us as soon as possible."