Miquel Pons replaces Tommaso Marcon in Moto2 at Portimao

Miquel Pons will make his competitive Grand Prix racing debut in the Moto2 category this weekend in place of Tommaso Marcon who tested positive for Covid-19 on his return to Italy. 

The MV Agusta Forward Racing team are without Simone Corsi due to the Italian’s left wrist injury he suffered at the opening round at Losail. 

Corsi was then replaced by Marcon for the second round in Doha. Marcon is the team’s Official third rider for the season and is scheduled to compete in some of the European rounds throughout the year. 

Speaking ahead of his debut with the team, Pons said: "I am very happy for the opportunity I have been given. 

"The truth is that for me it is a dream to be able to race in the Moto2 championship for this race. I will put all my effort in it and give my best. 

"I would like to thank the MV Agusta Forward Racing team and Giovanni Cuzari, as well as the Hernandez family, Lucio Cecchinello, Nobby Wedda, my family and all those who support me and have made this experience possible."

While it will be his first ride in Moto2, Pons will be a regular inside the MotoGP paddock this season, as he is scheduled to compete for the LCR E-Team in MotoE. 

Pons has also competed in the European Moto2 series and WorldSSP over the last few years. 

Forward Racing Team Owner, Giovanni Cuzari added: "I'm happy to give this opportunity to the young spanish Miquel Pons and I would like to thank Lucio Cecchinello, who was very willing to let us have his rider for this race, as well as pointing him out to us as a rider who has already raced on the Portuguese track. 

"We hope Miquel can express himself at his best on the MV Agusta F2, even though it is his first time on a 3-cylinder Moto2. 

"Obviously, I am sorry for Tommaso, but certainly relieved knowing that he is well and has not developed any symptoms related to COVID-19. 

"So, I give my personal best of luck to Miquel, who we will meet in a few days on the track."