Source: Supplied.

Hiroshi Aoyama is hopeful of putting in a solid performance this weekend at Motegi’s 15th round of the MotoGP World Championship, as he replaces injured Australia Jack Miller at Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS, who’s still recovering from a leg fracture.

Aoyama, who was crowned the 2009 world champion in the intermediate class – the last of the 250 two-stroke era, has extensive MotoGP experience, having raced four full seasons since making his debut in the premier class back in 2010.

Since 2015 the 35-year-old Japanese rider has been an HRC test rider and heavily involved in the development of the Honda RC213V he’ll race this weekend in Motegi.

“Firstly I want to wish Jack a speedy recovery and I hope he will be fit to race in his home grand prix at Phillip Island,” said Aoyama. “It’s never nice to replace an injured rider but I hope that I can do a good job for both Jack and the team in Motegi.

“I also want to thank Michael Bartholemy and Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS for giving me the opportunity to race once again in front of the Japanese fans. I have not raced yet this season, so it will take some time to get back the feeling.

“The fact that I already know a lot of the crew, having worked with them in the past, will help a lot, as will having a rider with Tito’s experience on the other side of the box. I am looking forward to the weekend ahead!”

The Japanese ace last starred in the prestigious championship this time last year at his home race of Motegi, where he filled in for the then injured Dani Pedrosa at Repsol Honda to place 15th on the day.