Espargaro expects ‘difficult weekend’ at Portimao, Bradl replaces Marquez

Stefan Bradl will replace Marc Marquez at this weekend’s Algarve MotoGP following the eight-time world champion’s recent training accident. 

Marquez suffered a crash during his off-road training which led to a ‘slight concussion’, and after remaining unwell for several days, the decision was taken to skip this weekend’s second race at Portimao. 

It means Marquez misses out on the opportunity to fight for a third consecutive win, while Bradl will instead compete in his fifth round this year.

"First of all I hope Marc is recovering well and he can be back on track soon. I am looking forward to riding again as Portimao is an enjoyable circuit where we had a good result towards the end of 2020," said Bradl. 

"It’s never easy to jump on the bike, but we have had a lot of good bike time this year between the races and testing."

Bradl will line-up alongside Pol Espargaro who claimed his first podium of the year in Misano - his first as a Repsol Honda rider too. 

But even though the Spaniard is high on confidence, ‘I think it could be a bit difficult this weekend’.

Espargaro said: "We had a great weekend in Misano and we were able to show what we can do on the Honda but now we have a new challenge. 

"Having already raced in Portugal this year will be good as we already have knowledge of the track but I think it could be a bit difficult this weekend compared to Misano. 

"Conditions will be different compared to the last time here so we have to understand what adjustments we will need. 

"The motivation is so high to push in these final rounds and reward the team again. I want to wish Marc a speedy recovery."