MotoGP: Iker Lecuona to replace Marquez in Jerez

Iker Lecuona will replace Marc Marquez at Jerez onboard the Repsol Honda.

Iker Lecuona will make the jump back to the MotoGP paddock after announces a return to replace the injured Marquez. Lecuona makes his return after riding for Honda’s WorldSBK team.

Marc Marquez will continue his recovery in Spain, after his crash in Portimao crash with Oliveira. Marquez was operated on four weeks ago, with the aim to return for the French Grand Prix in May.

Marquez’s penalty from the Portimao crash has still not been announced after Repsol Honda appealed the modification to the penalty. At the time, the crash injured Marquez, Oliveira, and even Jorge Martin.

Lecuona is currently 13^th in the 2023 WorldSBK standings, behind his teammate Xavi Vierge on the Honda. He comes off a disappointing weekend at Assen, where the Spaniard failed to score any points. However, the 23-year-old has stood on the podium in the WorldSBK class, with a third-place finish last season. 

Lecuona made the move to WorldSBK after being left without a ride at the end of the 2021 MotoGP season. His best career finish came in the 2021 season, with a sixth-place finish onboard the Tech3 KTM.

Marquez said: “Yesterday we did another CT scan, and it has been confirmed that, despite the fact that the injury is progressing favourably, the bone has not yet finished healing and racing in Jerez was risky. Together with the medical team, we decided not to take any risks, to wait two more weeks and return in Le Mans.

“I am very sorry to miss the Spanish Grand Prix because it is always special, because of the atmosphere, racing at home and above all, seeing and enjoying the fans. I will continue with the rehabilitation and work to be back as soon as possible. Thank you for your messages of support!”

Lecuona said: “First, I want to wish Marc all the best in his recovery, he is the reference in MotoGP, and I think not only the fans, but also the riders miss him a lot. For me, of course it’s an incredible opportunity to return to MotoGP and ride with the team of my dreams. Doing it in front of the Spanish crowd is extra special.

“But we have to be realistic, it will be a very tough and demanding weekend. I have spent this year and last year fully focused on WorldSBK with Team HRC and now I need to get used to everything that is different in MotoGP as well as learn a brand-new bike – the Honda RC213V. No matter what, I will do my best and let’s see what the outcome is.”

Image credit: worldsbk.com