Maverick Viñales could be nearing a return to Tech3 KTM at the Japanese Grand Prix in Motegi. Pol Espargaró expects the former Suzuki, Yamaha and Aprilia race winner to be close to taking his place on the bike as MotoGP begins its overseas races, but no official confirmation of Viñales’ participation had been given.

Viñales has not raced since July’s German MotoGP while pursuing further treatment for a long-standing injury to his left shoulder. KTM test rider Espargaró has filled the seat for the last four events. Viñales was back in MotoGP action at the Pirelli test at the Red Bull Ring, where he was reportedly quickest among the riders using adapted 1000cc machinery.

After finishing 16th in the Austrian Grand Prix, Espargaró described Japan as an ideal setting for Viñales’ comeback. He also cautioned that returning to his usual speed may take time. Viñales’ place at Motegi was still unresolved, while he has no seat on the 2027 MotoGP grid. The possibility of racing in Japan therefore remains an expectation rather than a confirmed line-up change.

Espargaró’s own schedule is tied to KTM’s next development phase. He is due to resume work on the manufacturer’s new 850cc MotoGP machine for 2027, with two tests planned during the overseas rounds. Missing one of those sessions would be particularly damaging to the project in his view. A Viñales return at Motegi would consequently restore Tech3 KTM’s intended race pairing and allow its test rider to concentrate on the development programme.