Pol Espargaro to Replace Maverick Vinales at British GP

Maverick Vinales will not participate in the British Grand Prix this weekend due to a shoulder injury, with Pol Espargaro taking his place as KTM's MotoGP test rider.

KTM confirmed Vinales' absence following consultations during the summer break and a recent visit to the Red Bull Athlete Performance Centre. Vinales has been struggling with a shoulder injury sustained in July 2025, and further medical tests revealed a small tear in the infraspinatus muscle.

This will mark Espargaro's first Grand Prix appearance of 2026, as he previously retired from MotoGP at the end of 2023. Vinales has faced challenges in regaining his form this season, and his injury has raised concerns about his future in the sport.