Lorenzo confirms 2019 debut at Qatar test

Jorge Lorenzo will complete his first MotoGP laps of 2019 when he takes part in the final pre-season test in Qatar.

The new Repsol Honda rider was forced to sit-out the Sepang test due to a fractured scaphoid bone in his left wrist during a January training accident, but has confirmed he will be on track this weekend from February 23-25.

"I have been working a lot on improving my wrist and I’m pleased with the progress," said Lorenzo, who will be riding in full Repsol colours for the first time.

"Of course I would have liked to be in a better condition, but I feel we will be able to have a productive test.

"First we must understand my condition on the bike. Honda were able to make a lot of progress in Sepang and I’m looking forward to getting back on the RC213V and preparing for the season ahead.”

Team-mate and reigning MotoGP champion Marc Marquez is also below 100 percent fitness as he continues to recover from December's shoulder surgery. Nonetheless, the Spaniard was able to ride at Sepang and has continued his intense physiotherapy programme ahead of Qatar.

"Already we are at the last test before the season starts!" Marquez said. "I am of course excited to ride once again and continue the work we did in Malaysia.

"Since then I have continued to work on improving my shoulder and I'm confident I will be in a better physical condition than in Malaysia. The focus is again to test the most important parts for Honda so we can start the season well.”

Despite a shortened track schedule to save his shoulder, Marquez was quickest on the opening day in Sepang. He eventually set the eleventh fastest lap time (+0.9s) but was much more competitive in terms of race pace…

The season-opening Qatar Grand Prix will be held on the evening of March 10.