Viñales Faces Jerez Recovery Target After Shoulder Setback
Red Bull KTM Tech3 rider Maverick Viñales will undergo a minor procedure to address a displaced screw in his left shoulder, forcing him to withdraw from the remainder of the US Grand Prix. The issue stems from an injury sustained during qualifying at the 2025 German Grand Prix, a crash that marked the first major injury of his MotoGP career.
Lingering Pain and the Discovery in Austin
Despite completing the opening two rounds of the 2026 season in Thailand and Brazil, Viñales experienced increasing pain after the Brazilian Grand Prix. Investigations revealed a screw, initially fitted after the Sachsenring crash, had grow displaced. “After Brazil, I was in more pain than usual,” Viñales told DAZN. “It wasn’t normal.”
Impact on Performance and the Decision to Withdraw
Viñales attempted to assess his fitness during the opening practice session at the Circuit of the Americas, but concluded it was better to sit out the weekend. He noted a loss of strength and an inability to perform at full throttle due to the demanding nature of the Austin track. “I’m losing strength. The problem is that I ask my body to perform, but the muscle doesn’t respond,” he explained.
Recovery Plan and Return to Racing
The rider will return to Europe for a procedure to remove the screw, with the aim of being fit to compete at the Grand Prix of Spain in Jerez in April. The postponement of the Qatar Grand Prix provides a valuable window for recovery. Viñales expressed confidence in his KTM teammates to perform strongly in his absence.
Previous Struggles and 2026 Season Start
The shoulder injury significantly impacted the latter half of the 2025 season for Viñales. A partnership with Jorge Lorenzo during the winter break was intended to revitalize his performance, but he has yet to score points in the 2026 season, finishing 16th in Thailand and 18th in Brazil.
Did you know?
Maverick Viñales switched to KTM after previously riding for Yamaha and Aprilia.
FAQ
What caused Maverick Viñales’ withdrawal from the US GP?
A displaced screw in his left shoulder, initially fitted after a crash at the 2025 German Grand Prix, caused him to withdraw.
When is Maverick Viñales expected to return to racing?
He is targeting a return at the Grand Prix of Spain in Jerez in April.
What impact did the 2025 German GP crash have on Viñales’ career?
It marked his first major injury in MotoGP and significantly impacted his performance for the remainder of the 2025 season.
What is Viñales’ current points standing in the 2026 MotoGP season?
He has yet to score any points, finishing 16th in Thailand and 18th in Brazil.
What is the next race on the MotoGP calendar?
The next race is the Grand Prix of Spain in Jerez on April 26th.
Explore more MotoGP news and updates on the official MotoGP website.
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