Image: Supplied.

German Jonas Folger is set to make a return to the MotoGP grid at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) and welcomes the ‘big challenge’ ahead as he fills in for the injured Pol Espargaro at GasGas Factory Racing Tech3 team.

Folger, 29, last competed in the premier-class in 2017 and has scored a best MotoGP result of second place at the German Grand Prix that year onboard a Yamaha with the Tech3 outfit.

COTA will also mark Folger’s first competitive appearance since becoming a test rider for KTM, as Espargaro recovers from injuries sustained during the second practice session at Portimao.

“First of all I really hope Pol is doing well and getting back on his feet as soon as possible,” Folger explained. “I’m sure he has the right people around him.

“From my side I’m looking forward to racing again and arriving to Texas to see all the guys from my old team! I hope we can do a decent job and I know it will be a big challenge for me since testing has only just started. However, this will be a great opportunity to get up to speed and learn more about the bike. I’m thankful and now looking to Texas.”

Folger will fill-in from COTA until Espargaro is fit to resume racing, with the third round of the 2023 MotoGP World Championship to take place in Texas, USA on 14-16 April.