Maverick Vinales secured the permits to compete in the 16th round of the 2026 MotoGP season in Japan with the help of doctors. This will be Vinales's first race following his withdrawal due to issues related to a herniated shoulder experienced at the German Grand Prix on July 12th.
As a ten-time Grand Prix winner, Vinales participated in several laps with the KTM RC16 during the Pirelli test at the Red Bull Ring last week in preparation for the anticipated return.
Rehabilitation Process and Physical Condition
Maverick Vinales is striving to regain his physical condition after injuring his shoulder at the Sachsenring in 2025. Having missed several races last year, Vinales started the new season with high expectations, but he had a poor start in the drizzle races at the season opener. Doctors performed a corrective surgery to remove a loose vertebra in his shoulder. After this surgery, Vinales, who had missed three races, returned to racing in Barcelona but could not meet his speed expectations on his first attempt. Therefore, Vinales stepped away from the track once again after midsummer; he missed the last four races to make a definitive return.
Vinales expressed that he feels he is on the right track and ready to take the next step, even though he is not yet at 100%. Progressing step-by-step in Motegi will be crucial to understanding his physical condition and regaining his feel on the motorcycle.
Team and Support
Team manager Nicolas Goyon expressed his satisfaction upon learning that Maverick would be back with us in Japan. The goal from the beginning of this process was to encourage recovery rather than to speed up the process, and to ensure his return when he is ready.
Satisfaction was also expressed regarding the full complement of the team roster. They expressed eagerness to start working with Maverick again in Motegi without any gaps. Furthermore, it was emphasized that thanks should be given to the doctors for the effort and support shown during the rehabilitation process. He expressed eagerness to get back on the bike and race.
Conclusion
Maverick Vinales acknowledged that the time had come to return after a long break. Team officials stated that they will support Maverick throughout the weekend and allow him to regain his rhythm step by step, indicating that they are ready to see him race again.
Figures
- Maverick Vinales is competing in 22nd place with 10 points in the 2026 MotoGP season (Tech 3).
- Archive: Tech3 KTM Maverick Vinales Return Confirmed (September 29, 2026)
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Go to sourceCompiled by Şükrü Utku Poyraz
