Source: Supplied.

Yamaha WorldSBK regular Michael van der Mark says he fully supports Valentino Rossi attempting to race this weekend’s grand prix at Aragon in Spain, despite potentially being denied of making his MotoGP after being appointed as the multi-time world champion’s replacement.

Movistar Yamaha confirmed the Dutchman will still be on-hand at the event, as Rossi will reevaluate his leg injury following Friday’s FP1 session to determine if he’ll continue through the weekend, leaving a chance that van der Mark could still pilot the YZR-M1.

“Though it remains uncertain if I will get to ride the YZR-M1 this weekend, I’m still looking forward to it,” van der Mark commented. “While I would like to get to step aboard the YZR-M1, I’m also fully supporting Valentino making his return. I’ll either get to make my MotoGP debut or, should I not be able to ride, I will get to see Valentino live in action as he makes his comeback.

“As I said earlier, I’ve not been able to ride a MotoGP bike before the grand prix kicks off so, if Valentino ends up withdrawing from the Aragon GP, I will have to jump in at the deep end at the start of the next session and just try my best.

“However, after securing my first WorldSBK podium of the 2017 season in Portimao, I’m having a good momentum to step up to the challenge. I want to thank Yamaha again for giving me this opportunity. I’m sure it will be a good experience either way.”

Rossi suffered displaced fractures of the tibia and fibula in his right leg from an enduro accident just three weeks ago, and completed a number of laps this week at Misano aboard a YZF-R1M superbike, which has resulted in him aiming for a start this weekend.