West to return to MotoGP grid at Philip Island

Anthony West will make a return to the MotoGP grid for the first time since 2008 next weekend at Philip Island with the Australian in line to replace Karel Abraham. The Czech rider has elected to skip the upcoming trio of fly away races as he attempts to recover from the foot injuries that have blighted his season.

For West, who had been racing a Speed Up for QMMF in Moto2 this year the opportunity comes at a time when he had been searching for a ride. The former Grand Prix race winner was sacked by the Qatari squad and raced last weekend in British Supersport.

“Unfortunately Karel Abraham is not fit to race and hope he feels better soon,” said West. “Big thanks to Karel [Sr] and his team for letting me race his bike next week at the Australian MotoGP.”

West will lineup alongside Jack Miller to put two Australian’s on the grid for their home Grand Prix.