Maverick Vinales will return to MotoGP action at the Spanish Grand Prix after a lengthy recovery from shoulder surgery, with the Tech3 KTM rider aiming to rebuild both his form and his future in the championship.
The Spaniard had been sidelined following complications from a shoulder injury first suffered during a crash in qualifying at last year’s German Grand Prix. A dislodged screw in his left shoulder eventually forced him to undergo a second operation, causing him to miss races in Austin, Jerez, and Le Mans.
Vinales said the surgery was necessary to properly resolve the issue, explaining that doctors removed the screw and cleaned the affected joint. He has since spent several weeks rehabilitating at the Red Bull APC Centre in Austria.
According to Vinales, the recovery process has brought encouraging progress. He revealed that strength and mobility in his shoulder have improved significantly compared to before the surgery, allowing him to ride again without the same physical limitations.
The 31-year-old recently tested on a supermoto bike and admitted he finally feels closer to normal physically. However, he also acknowledged there are still minor limitations in his chest and back areas as some muscles continue to recover from the procedure.
Despite not being at full fitness yet, Vinales believes his condition is good enough to return to competition and evaluate his progress further during race weekends.
His comeback also arrives at a crucial moment for his MotoGP future. Earlier this season, Vinales was considered a strong candidate for a factory KTM seat in 2026. However, his injury absence and inconsistent start to the campaign have reportedly changed the situation.
Recent reports have linked VR46 rider Fabio di Giannantonio to the factory KTM position, potentially leaving Vinales with Tech3 as his only route to remain within the KTM structure next season.
Vinales openly admitted that fitness and performance remain decisive factors in securing a contract in MotoGP, regardless of experience or reputation. Still, he maintains a positive relationship with KTM management and believes he can prove his value once fully recovered.
As he returns to the grid, Vinales now faces an important period that could shape both his season and his long-term future in MotoGP.
