As KTM's Official Test and Reserve Rider, Espargaró will once again join the MotoGP grid, looking to fly the orange flag in front of the Austrian crowd as he makes his fourth consecutive appearance for the team this season.

Espargaró produced a standout Qualifying performance at the previous round in San Marino, a clear marker of how far he has progressed since returning to the Tech3 garage.

Having stepped in for Viñales at Silverstone, Aragón, and Misano, the Spaniard arrives at KTM's home event with valuable race mileage under his belt, while Tech3 remains hopeful that Viñales will be fit to return when the championship heads overseas to Japan.

Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager said: “It means a lot to have Pol with us for our factory's home race in Austria. Every time he gets back on the bike he looks more comfortable and competitive, and Misano was another positive step forward. We know we can count on his experience and professionalism, and we're looking forward to seeing him race in front of the orange army this weekend. At the same time, our priority remains supporting Maverick's recovery and we hope to have him back with us as soon as possible.”