Espargaro to make MotoGP debut

From motogp.com

Aleix Espargaró’s remarkable year is set to continue as he has been lined up for a MotoGP debut as a replacement rider for Pramac Racing at Indianapolis and Misano.

In the continued absence of Casey Stoner – who is scheduled to return in October in Portugal – there remained a spare Pramac ride for the next two races, with Mika Kallio temporarily stepping into the Ducati factory team and with Pramac’s Brno substitute Michel Fabrizio unavailable. Thus, a golden opportunity has appeared for Espargaró.

The former 125cc and 250cc regular has been without a permanent World Championship ride this year, but has impressed with substitute appearances at Assen and Sachsenring for the Balatonring Team and in his role as a Moto2 development rider.

The MotoGP race Aug. 28-30 will also be Espargaró’s Indianapolis debut as the 250cc 2008 Indy race was cancelled due to weather conditions.

The young Spaniard commented, “I am very happy as this season has been very hard for me. We are beginning a project for next year to be back in the World Championship and this will be a good chance to get back in touch with things.

"This season I have ridden for a couple of races in the 250cc category in Assen and Sachsenring concluding in fourth and seventh positions, therefore I feel physical ready. It is like a dream come true to find myself all of a sudden in MotoGP. I want to thank the Pramac Racing team for giving me this opportunity to compete at the top level of motorcycle racing.”