Jonas Folger at GASGAS Tech3 in Austin

While waiting for the return of Pol Espargaró, who suffered a serious accident in Portimão last weekend, GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 has decided to entrust the helm of the second official RC16 to Jonas Folger. The German will join the team from the Grand Prix of the Americas in mid-April in Austin, Texas.

Jonas Folger returns © MotoGP

At 29 years old, Folger will make his first appearance in the premier category since 2017. Jonas Folger already represented the Tech3 structure in 2017, signing a remarkable performance during his national Grand Prix with a second place behind Marc Márquez. Tech3 therefore made the prudent choice of a rider who knows the team and the machine well since he participated in pre-season testing for KTM which supplies its machines to Team GASGAS.

Pol Espargaró returned to Barcelona last weekend, where he underwent jaw surgery on Tuesday at Dexeus Hospital. The Spanish pilot will remain under observation for a few days and hopes to be able to return home quickly in order to begin his convalescence and prepare for his return.

GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 enters the Argentine Grand Prix this weekend with only driver Augusto Fernández. A very heavy task on the shoulders of the only rookie of the season.

Jonas Folger: “First of all, I hope Pol is well and gets back on his feet as quickly as possible, I’m sure he’s in good care. For my part, I can't wait to resume competition and arrive in Texas to see all the members of my old team again! I hope we can do a good job and I know it will be a big challenge for me since the testing has just started. However, it will be a great opportunity to gain speed and learn more about motorcycling. I’m excited and can’t wait to be in Texas. »