Aleix Espargaro: Plates and screws removed following Sepang crash

In early April, Honda test rider Aleix Espargaro suffered fractures to four vertebrae and bruising in a serious crash at the Sepang International Circuit. The crash occurred during a test organised by HRC at the Malaysian circuit. Espargaro was lucky to have escaped with such minor injuries – the accident could have had far more serious consequences.

During surgery in April, the 37-year-old had plates and screws inserted into his back to stabilise the fractures. These were removed this week at the Dexeus University Hospital in Barcelona.

“A quick stop-off for the operation to remove the plates and screws that were inserted into my back four months ago,” Espargaro posted on social media. The Spaniard is looking forward to getting back on his MotoGP bike soon. “A record-breaking recovery – and now the countdown is on until I can get back on the Honda in September. I can’t wait to open the throttle again!”

Aleix Espargaro will be back on the MotoGP Honda in September

Due to his injury, Aleix Espargaro has not yet been able to make a wildcard appearance this year. His last MotoGP race weekend was at the 2025 season finale in Valencia. In September, he will therefore be back on the RC213V and resume his role as a Honda test rider. It is not yet known whether he will be competing at the Grands Prix in Misano or Spielberg. What is certain, however, is that Takaaki Nakagami will be making a wildcard appearance for Honda at the Japanese Grand Prix in early October.

Speaking of Honda: LCR rider Johann Zarco is also set to make his comeback in September. Following his serious crash in Barcelona in mid-May, the Frenchman has been working intensively on his recovery. Zarco was replaced by Cal Crutchlow at Mugello, Balaton, Brno, Assen, the Sachsenring and Silverstone. The 40-year-old Briton will also be riding the MotoGP Honda at Aragon (28–30 August).

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22.10.2026 - 23:55