Image: Supplied.

HRC test rider Stefan Bradl has been called into Repsol Honda as Jorge Lorenzo’s replacement for round nine of the 2019 MotoGP World Championship at the Sachsenring in Germany this weekend.

Lorenzo crashed heavily during the opening practice session at Assen last weekend, resulting a fractured T6 and T8 vertebrae while forcing him out a minimum of two grand prix.

“I’m very excited to join the Repsol Honda team in Germany,” said Bradl. “It’s a special race for me as my home race, obviously I am very sorry for Lorenzo and I wish him the fastest recovery possible and to come back strong.

“I am glad to be able to help the team and HRC, let’s see what this weekend brings. We have been working well with Honda and I am grateful to them for this opportunity.”

Bradl will join reigning champion and points leader Marc Marquez for his second appearance of 2019 after finishing P10 in Jerez, with the German having two top-five finishes to his name at the Sachsenring while riding a Honda in 2012 and 2013.