Fabio di Giannantonio talks about his return to MotoGP after health problems

Fabio di Giannantonio has announced he is ready for the final MotoGP triple-header, starting with Australia. After the Japanese Grand Prix, the Italian driver underwent a comprehensive medical examination to examine his previously dislocated shoulder. However, he confirmed that the illness would prevent him from providing his “100% performance”.

Initially, it appeared that di Giannantonio might need surgery to fully resolve his shoulder problem, fueling speculation about his possible absence for the final rounds of the 2024 season. Luckily for the VR46 rider, he will be able to take part in the race this weekend at the Phillip Island Circuit, the same venue where he secured his first MotoGP podium in 2023, followed by a win in Qatar that laid the foundation for him a place in Valentino Rossi’s team. Di Giannantonio confirmed his presence at the upcoming races despite the challenges, telling the media:

“In Motegi I felt better, both on the bike and physically, I went home and used the week to rest and recover.

“I’ve done some more medical checks, I’m not 100% yet, it won’t be easy to get through this season finale, but I’ll be on track and keep doing my best to get back to the finish.” Slipstream of the strongest riders.”

The 26-year-old driver then explained the importance of the Australian GP in his life. He added:

“The Phillip Island circuit is truly unique in every way. One of my favorites, very quick and with great memories.

“In 2023 I got my first podium in MotoGP, a moment that I will never forget, also because it happened in a very short time [important] period of my career.”

Di Giannantonio is tied for ninth place in the world championship standings with teammate Marco Bezzecchi and Aprilia rider Aleix Espargaró, as all three riders currently hold 134 points. Bezzecchi warned that riders at Phillip Island will have to brave “the weather with wind, cold and rain” and concluded it will not be an easy race. He added:

“Phillip Island is a route to enjoy: very fast, especially in the last section, and very, very beautiful.

“As always we have to deal with the weather, with wind, cold, rain, it will not be easy but we know that we have to take this aspect into account.”

“In Japan we did a good job, we may not have been as competitive as in Mandalika, but we picked up solid placings and managed to be closer to the group of top guys despite different grip conditions.

“Let’s keep it up, there are three very challenging weeks ahead of us, but we can take another step forward.”