Former Yamaha Tech3 rider Jonas Folger will reportedly be given the opportunity to take part in a test for the KTM RC16 ahead of potentially joining the team in 2019.
Folger admitted to feeling very comfortable in the Kalex family. It has long been speculated about the way a possible return of the former prodigy.
The German rider was forced to sit out the 2018 MotoGP season. He also was forced to miss the final four rounds of the 2017 season, after being diagnosed with Gilbert’s syndrome. Last season, he produced a stunning ride for Yamaha Tech3 team to claim his podium finish at the Sachsenring, as Dani Pedrosa finished in third.
KTM race director Pit Beirer told to media that Folger might be able to do a MotoGP test. His former Tech3 team-mate Johann Zarco is known to be riding the KTM RC16 over the next two years in the Red Bull KTM factory team.
“We definitely got in contact with Jonas Folger, because we also feel sorry for the guy and wanted to know how he is doing,” Beirer said.
“But right now is still the phase where the racing scene has to leave him alone. But he knows where we are, KTM is only half an hour away from his home town. If he’s ready to do anything in racing, then he knows he’s listening to us. But right now we just have to give him time.” Beirer added.
Valentino Rossi is admitted he was inspired by Jonas Folger’s performance at German GP last year. (Source:www.yahoo.com)
Meanwhile, Yamaha rider Valentino Rossi said he studied Folger’s last year German GP performance, and claimed this helped him to secure second place in Sunday’s race.
“For me was very important the race of Folger last year. First of all, mentally, because I remember I arrive here last year and I wasn’t comfortable with the bike, not strong enough.” Rossi said.
“But Folger last year don’t know that it’s difficult track of the Yamaha, and he did a fantastic race, at the level of Marc, so he stayed there in the fight.
“So I studied everything of Folger, all the race, all the lines, in which way he ride the bike, in which way he set up the bike. I think it’s a good help for me, the race of Folger last year, so I have to give to him the trophy.” Rossi added.
