Tech3 has made a last-minute change to its lineup for the French MotoGP at Le Mans, calling up Jonas Folger to replace Maverick Vinales, who remains sidelined due to injury recovery and surgery on his shoulder.
Vinales has been struggling with ongoing fitness issues following a crash and subsequent surgery to address complications from a previous shoulder injury. Despite targeting a return for Le Mans, medical advice has ruled him out of competition as he continues his rehabilitation process.
With preferred replacement Pol Espargaro also unavailable due to injury, Tech3 was left needing an alternative option for the weekend. The team has now turned to Folger, a familiar name within KTM’s development structure and a former Tech3 rider.
Source: Reddit
Folger is no stranger to MotoGP action. He previously competed in the premier class with Tech3 and also earned a strong reputation in Moto2 before stepping away from full-time racing. He has since remained involved in testing duties within the KTM system, which helped pave the way for this return.
His selection is seen as a practical decision, given his experience with both the team and the MotoGP machinery. While he has not been a regular fixture on the grid in recent seasons, he has previously shown strong pace when given wildcard opportunities, including a notable podium in his MotoGP career.
For Tech3, the decision highlights the challenges teams face when injuries disrupt their planned line-ups, especially during a tightly packed European calendar. It also reflects the value of experienced test riders who can step in at short notice and deliver competitive performances.
The French Grand Prix at Le Mans now becomes another opportunity for Folger to re-establish himself in the premier class, while Vinales continues focusing on full recovery with no confirmed return date yet.
