P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Pol Espargaro made the most of his MotoGP return at Brno, storming from 20th to ninth in Sunday’s race and reflecting on what might have been for Maverick Vinales.
Pol Espargaro showcased a strong performance as a last-minute replacement for Maverick Vinales at Tech3 KTM during the Czech MotoGP round at Brno, scoring double points.
Espargaro, KTM’s test rider, hadn’t raced since Misano last year, but capitalized on the unfamiliarity of regular riders with Brno and the rain on Friday.
Despite starting in 20th place, Espargaro made impressive overtakes to finish ninth in the race, pushed up to the ninth position after a penalty for another rider.
The KTM team showed a breakthrough at Brno with its first podiums of the season by Pedro Acosta and Enea Bastianini, but Espargaro believes Vinales could have contributed more if not for his injury.
Tech3 team manager Nicolas Goyon commended Espargaro for his strong performance and thanked him for his valuable contribution throughout the weekend.
