Hernandez to replace Folger for Sepang MotoGP test
Yonny Hernandez will replace Jonas Folger for the first MotoGP pre-season test in Sepang this month, Motorsport.com has learned.
It was announced on Wednesday that Folger will sit out the entire 2018 campaign as he continues his recovery from Gilbert's syndrome, the rare illness which left him unable to compete in the final four races of last year.
The German's decision leaves Tech 3 Yamaha needing to rapidly find a replacement rider, with pre-season testing beginning at Sepang in a little over a week.
Replacing Folger at the Malaysian track will be Hernandez, who raced full-time in MotoGP from 2012 to 2016 with the BQR, PBM, Pramac and Aspar squads.
The Colombian stepped down to Moto2 in 2017, but parted ways with the AGR team after nine rounds before turning his focus to endurance racing with Honda.
He has also penned a deal with the Pedercini squad to race in World Superbike this season.
It's understood that Tech 3 is aiming to have a permanent replacement for Folger firmed up before the second pre-season test in Thailand in February, although it is not clear whether Hernandez is in contention for such a role.
Got a MotoGP question you want answering? Tweet using the hashtag #MotoGPMailbag or email us at motogpmailbag@motorsport.com and our expert journalists will give you a response!
Share Or Save This Story
Super Formula Sugo: Igor Fraga livid as safety car gifts Nirei Fukuzumi victory
How a Le Mans winner is changing the game for female racing in Japan
The rising Japanese star with his sights set firmly on IndyCar
Hernandez sacked by Superbike team after hotel mix-up
Hernandez gets second WSBK season with Pedercini
Tech 3 struggling to find "exciting" replacement for Folger
KTM replaces Maverick Vinales with Pol Espargaro for British GP
KTM making plans to drop Maverick Vinales with immediate effect
Maverick Vinales after German GP woes: “I need support from team but all I get is criticism”
Kyle Larson wins Knoxville Nationals pole but is at peace he (probably) can't race
How many manufacturers will take the Rally2 option in 2027?
The 'incredible stories' that could be told in Formula E's London title decider
Why Sebastien Buemi is leaving Formula E after 12 seasons
How MotoGP's summer break has revitalised Aprilia's factory team
What we learned from MotoGP’s return at the British GP
The humble origin story of a MotoGP powerhouse
Does nobody want to win the 2026 MotoGP title?
Subscribe and access Motorsport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments