MotoGP: Ducati Test Rider Michele Pirro Replaces Andrea Iannone at VR46 for Barcelona GP

Valentino Rossi's VR46 MotoGP team has made a late rider change for the season-ending Solidarity Grand Prix in Valencia. Michele Pirro will step in to replace Andrea Iannone, who had filled in for the injured Fabio Di Giannantonio at the Malaysian GP. Iannone, who made a comeback to MotoGP after a four-year absence, struggled with upper body pain during the Malaysian GP. Despite his best efforts, he could only manage a 17th-place finish. Due to these physical limitations, he will not participate in the Valencia GP. Ducati's test rider, Michele Pirro, will seize this opportunity to race at Valencia. This rare chance to compete in a MotoGP race will provide valuable track time and data for Ducati ahead of post-race testing. Pirro has been a consistent presence in MotoGP, participating in at least one race every year since 2012.

Also Read: MotoGP: Barcelona GP Confirmed as Season Finale, Martin and Bagnaia Set for Championship Showdown

Michele Pirro said: 'First of all, thanks to the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team and Ducati for this great opportunity to close the season on a MotoGP. It is always nice to race in this category and then also with Valentino's colours, whom I thank together with Uccio and Pablo. I send a big hug to Fabio, he was doing really well but not being 100% physically fit on this engine size is complicated and next year he really has a great opportunity with the GP25. It will be interesting for me to race on the GP23, I will be able to see where we have made some steps forward. I have no expectations for the race, but I am happy to race, also for all the people affected by the floods in Valencia, and I hope to honour the Team and the working group. See you on the track!'

MotoGP Barcelona GP: The Solidarity Grand Prix

The 2023 MotoGP season will reach its dramatic conclusion at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya next week. Due to the damage caused by recent flooding at the Valencia circuit, the final race of the season has been relocated to the Spanish venue.

The championship battle between Ducati's Francesco Bagnaia and Pramac Racing's Jorge Martin is poised to go down to the wire. With Martin holding a 24-point lead and a maximum of 37 points still up for grabs, the title is far from decided.

Also Read: MotoGP Malaysian GP: Bagnaia Wins in Sepang, Keeps Up Title Fight with Martin till Final Round

Barcelona will also mark a bittersweet moment for Aleix Espargaro, who was originally scheduled to retire at Valencia. The Spanish rider will now say goodbye to full-time MotoGP competition on his home track. After the season, Espargaro will transition to a new role as an HRC test rider, with occasional wildcard appearances.