The KTM factory is facing a crisis situation. Its star driver Pol Espargaró fractured his left wrist in a crash during FP4. He is out of action and the Austrians are thus confirmed that the Spaniard was the tree that hid the forest. KTM, since then, has no longer had a starting rider to field, as Johann Zarco was asked to leave. However, we will have to find a solution. In an emergency, surprising decisions could be made…
First, let's take stock of the unfortunate Pol Espargaro. " Pol fractured his left radius at the wrist, a non-displaced fracture », explains the Doctor Enric Caceres, trauma specialist from the Dorna medical team. “ It may or may not require an operation, that’s up for debate. A scanner should allow us to see more clearly. »
« It's really a shame this fracture in the left wrist Says Mike leitner in a press release KTM. " But we will know more about what to do once the exams are carried out in Barcelona. He is forfeited for this race. For now, we can just give him all our support ". The Red Bull KTM rider is currently in Barcelona. KTM must seek replacement pilot for Thailand. A difficult task.
Pete Beirer, sports director at KTM, is now struggling to fill the void left by the injury of Pol Espargaro and the political decision taken about the case John Zarco. " I'm looking for drivers » declared the manager on speedweek. “ Pol is currently at the Clinica Dexeus of Dr. Ing. Xavier Mir. According to the contract with Dorna, we must replace him in Thailand if his situation requires it. But first we have to wait to see what the doctors tell us about how long it will last. »
Potential replacement drivers are rare. Because Johann zarco was fired, a return is unimaginable. Dani Pedrosa doesn't want to run anymore. This is why the Superbike is looked at closely, and Loris Baz could become an option. He has no contract with Yamaha, only one with Ten Kate. And he replaced Pol Espargaro in 2018 at Silverstone.
Buriram will take place on October 6, Motegi on October 20 and a week later it will be Phillip Island on October 27. Then we have Sepang on November 3 and Valencia on November 17. “ I don't want to give names now. I first want to know how long Pol will be unavailable " precise Beirer on speedweek.
It is also possible that Red Bull and KTM temporarily transfer Miguel Oliveira of the Tech3 team alongside Mika Kallio in the factory team. It is also said that Brad Binder could make his MotoGP debut right now. He has nothing more to hope for in Moto2 and he would compensate for the transfer ofOlive tree to discover a Tech3 team with which he has already signed for the 2020 season. To be continued…
