Vinales Misses Le Mans MotoGP, Folger Replaces

Maverick Vinales will miss the French MotoGP at Le Mans this weekend, with Tech3 KTM confirming Jonas Folger as his replacement while the Spaniard continues recovery from shoulder surgery.

Vinales sustained the injury in a fall at last July's German Grand Prix at Sachsenring. He withdrew from the United States Grand Prix last month, returned to Europe for surgery in early April to remove a loose screw from his left shoulder, and then skipped his home race at Jerez. After visiting the Red Bull Athlete Performance Centre last week, medical advisors recommended he delay his return further. The team expects him back for the Barcelona Grand Prix on May 17.

"I've been working hard since the surgery to fully recover and have always had Le Mans in my head as the target race to return," Vinales said. "However, after attending the APC this week, I have been advised that I am not yet strong enough to jump back on the bike. Whilst I am disappointed, I understand being back to full strength is the most important thing and I will keep my head down and prioritise that."

Tech3 faced similar challenges at Jerez, where MotoGP rules required a second rider after more than 10 days between races....