The Gran Premio de Espana at the famous race track of Jerez de la Frontera in Andalusia marks the European kick-off to the 2023 FIM MotoGP™ World Championship with a series of races running into September.
As he did two weeks ago in Texas, Jonas Folger will return to GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 this weekend to replace Spaniard Pol Espargaro, who continues his recovery at home after a serious crash in Portugal. The 29-year-old Folger made an impressive comeback at the Grand Prix of the Americas in his first MotoGP™ race in six years, finishing a difficult race in twelfth place and in doing so, he collected four points. In Jerez, prospects should be better for the full-time test rider of the Pierer Mobility AG with the brands KTM, GASGAS and Husqvarna, as he comes to southern Spain with more experience, having recently completed some testing there with the KTM RC16. In addition, the good memories of the Circuito de Jerez, especially his Moto2™ victory in 2015, should be helpful to go into his second MotoGP race weekend after his comeback with increased enthusiasm. Folger will also take part in the official Jerez test on Monday, May 1.
With the return of the series to Europe, the usual time table will be applied again. However, starting times on Sunday must be observed, as race day starts one hour later. ServusTV, the rights holder in German-speaking area, will report live from Jerez on TV and also as a stream.
#94 Jonas FOLGER (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3, KTM RC16):
“My comeback in Texas was good in terms of the experience I gained with the bike and the team. So, I am going to Jerez with more confidence. Furthermore, it is a familiar track for me, and I have good memories from past years, including a win in Moto2 and a podium in the 125cc class. Jerez is definitely one of my favourite circuits, so I am looking forward to going to southern Spain with the Tech3 team and more confidence. Hopefully we can get some good results.”
