Espargaro signed to return to KTM and Tech3 for the 2023 season following two difficult years at Honda, following his first stint with the Austrian marque from 2017 to 2020.
The eight-time podium finisher's season was immediately halted by a serious incident in the second practice session for the Portuguese Grand Prix in March, in which he suffered multiple fractures.
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Espargaro was out of action until the British Grand Prix in August, with his best finish so far a sixth on the Austria sprint as he continues to get back to full fitness on the bike.
He had signed a two-year contract with Tech3, but KTM soon found itself with five riders contracted for four seats for next season after it activated Moto2 championship leader Acosta’s option to come to MotoGP in 2024.
Both Espargaro and rookie team-mate Augusto Fernandez insisted they would be staying put in recent months, with both having deals in place.
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On Friday, Tech3 confirmed that Acosta will take Espargaro’s place while Fernandez will continue for a second season in MotoGP.
Tech3’s press release states that Espargaro “will fill a crucial and very valued position” for KTM, but doesn’t say what. This will likely involve testing duties and wildcard outings.
Espargaro is claimed to have been part of this “joint decision” to step aside to make room for Acosta.
Source: Autosport