Twenty-four riders are scheduled to compete in the upcoming Catalan Grand Prix, with Maverick Vinales leading as the most notable comeback attempt following his recent setbacks. The MotoGP Catalan GP rider comebacks include Vinales and Somkiat Chantra, both aiming to rejoin racing after significant injuries and missed events.
Maverick Vinales, riding for Red Bull Tech3 KTM, suffered a left shoulder injury at the German Grand Prix, which required surgery and forced him to miss the Brno race. He tried to return during the Austrian Grand Prix but withdrew mid-weekend and also missed the Hungarian round. This weekend, Vinales will attempt to compete at his home race in Barcelona.
Somkiat Chantra’s Return After Extended Absence
Somkiat Chantra from Idemitsu LCR–Honda is preparing for his comeback following an injury sustained in early July during dirt bike training that sidelined him for multiple rounds. Beyond missing the last four grands prix, Chantra also skipped the Le Mans event earlier in the season due to surgery for arm-pump syndrome. He faces a final medical evaluation on Monday and plans to test a road bike the following day.
Chantra’s future is set beyond MotoGP, as this will be his first and last season with LCR Honda. He will transition to the World Superbike Championship, with promising rider Diego Moreira slated to take his place next season.
Wildcards and Additional Riders in Catalan GP Lineup
Alongside the returning riders, wildcards Lorenzo Savadori and Aleix Espargaro will join the grid. Savadori has covered for Jorge Martin throughout the season, achieving a best finish of ninth place at Le Mans, but Martin, the reigning world champion, has now fully recovered from his injuries. Espargaro has competed in three grands prix this year—Jerez, Silverstone, and Assen—without scoring points and missed Austria and Hungary due to a cycling injury.
Significance of These Comebacks for the MotoGP Season
The return of Vinales and Chantra adds intensity and unpredictability to the Catalan Grand Prix, as both riders aim to regain their form after long absences and physical setbacks. Their performances will be closely watched, signaling not only personal milestones but also impacting team dynamics and championship standings. Following this event, the MotoGP calendar will continue to evolve as teams adjust to these riders rejoining the competition and others prepare for upcoming rounds.
