'My shoulder is healed' says Maverick Vinales after points on comeback
MotoGP rider Maverick Vinales has returned to competition following a shoulder injury sustained during the 2025 German Grand Prix. Despite lacking full physical strength, he successfully scored points at the Japanese Grand Prix and remains optimistic about his performance for the remainder of the 2026 season.
Why it matters
The recovery of high-profile athletes from long-term injuries is critical for team standings and the competitive landscape of professional motorcycle racing.
Maverick Vinales says he considers his shoulder healed after completing his latest MotoGP comeback at the Japanese Grand Prix last Sunday.
The veteran Spaniard came away from Motegi with two points for 14th place in the main race, rounding off his first full weekend of competition since the German Grand Prix in July.
The Tech 3 KTM rider has been battling a shoulder injury ever since an accident at the 2025 German round, but now sounds confident he can complete the 2026 season.
Vinales said the shoulder injury was no longer a problem, but strength was lacking – an issue that could only be solved by riding.
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