Tarran Mackenzie continues his recovery this weekend, local rider Ivo Lopes will take his place –

Taran Mackenzie is still recovering from his Donington Park crash, so will not be competing in this week’s MotoGP World Championship at Portimao.

Petronas MIE Racing Honda rider Taran Mackenzie will not race this weekend in Portimao. Mackenzie will continue his recovery from his accident at Donington Park.

The 2021 British Superbike champion suffered a major crash in the first race at Donington Park, landing on his head. Since the accident, Mackenzie has been unable to compete in the MotoGP World Championship as he is not 100% fit.

While Mackenzie recovers, Petronas MIE Racing Honda has called up Ivo Lopez to replace him this week. Lopez has previous WorldSBK experience having replaced Michael van der Mark last year in Barcelona.

“When we least expect it, the opportunity presents itself!” said López of participating in the MotoGP World Championship this week. “I was very surprised and happy when the PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda team invited me to participate with them in the next round of the MotoGP World Championship, which is being held in Portimão.

“The CBR1000 RR-R is a completely new bike for me, but I will do my best to adapt to the bike as quickly as possible and help the team in the best way possible, during what will be a very special adventure for me, on my “home” track in front of the Portuguese public.

“I won’t go to the track with any real expectations, I just want to seize the opportunity and do my best to help the team. As I said, I have no experience with this bike, but I will do my best to achieve World Championship-worthy times and take advantage of the fact that I know the AIA track well!”