MotoGP returns to Europe for round three of the 2021 season, which also sees the returning Marc Marq﷽uez join new team-mate Pol Espargꦐaro at Repsol Honda. 

Following a difficult Qatar double header for Honda across their ꩲfour riders, Portimao is next up for the Japanese manufacturer. 

It will♌ be Espargaro’s first experience on the Honda at a circuit besides Qatarꦍ, as he aims to ‘show the’ true ‘potential’ of the RC213V. 

The Spaniard goes i⛦nto the Portuguese Grand Prix with good memories ꦫhaving finished fourth in last year’s season finale. 

"We left Qatar with good information but without the results 🐷we were looking for. Portuga✱l gives me a chance to start to understand the Honda more because it will be the first time not riding it in Losail," said Espargaro. 

"It’s a fun and very physical ci😼rcuit to ride so I am excited to try the RC213V in Portugal. 

"We need to continue t🐠o improve our performance and show the potential of the Honda."

One of the big storylines heading into this weekend, is the retu꧃rn of Espargaro’s team-mate Marquez🅰, who makes his comeback nine months after breaking his right humerus. 

Speaking about having Marquez back, the former KTM rider added: "Of course I am also very excited to have Marc [Marquez] back in the box, he is the reference in MotoGP and working with h🎀im will help us to raise our level."

Espargaro currently sits tenth🌱 in the championship standings on 11 points and the top ♏Honda rider.