Maverick Viñales has taken a significant step toward reviving his 2026 campaign after undergoing successful shoulder surgery, with the Spaniard now targeting a return at the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix.
The Tech3 KTM rider travelled to Italy earlier this week following his withdrawal from the United States Grand Prix due to persistent shoulder pain. The procedure, carried out by a team led by Dr Giuseppe Porcellini at the Hospital of Sassuolo, involved removing a displaced screw from his left shoulder. The screw had been inserted after his crash at Sachsenring in 2025.
Viñales later confirmed the success of the operation on social media, expressing relief and gratitude to the medical team. With the source of discomfort addressed, his focus has now shifted fully to rehabilitation and regaining full fitness.
Source: Autosport
The injury had played a major role in a difficult start to the season. Despite expectations for stronger performances in his second year with KTM machinery, Viñales failed to score points in the opening rounds. His struggles stood in contrast to other KTM riders, including Enea Bastianini, who has already secured a podium, and Pedro Acosta, who has consistently challenged near the front.
Throughout the early races, Viñales explored alternative development directions with the bike, including testing different chassis options. However, he later acknowledged that the ongoing shoulder issue had significantly affected his performance, limiting his ability to ride at his usual level.
The timing of the surgery may prove beneficial, as a gap in the MotoGP calendar provides valuable recovery time. Viñales is now aiming to return for the Spanish Grand Prix later this month, where he hopes to reset his season and demonstrate his full potential on the KTM.
His progress over the coming weeks will be closely monitored, with expectations that a fully fit Viñales could yet re establish himself as a competitive force on the grid.
