Official: JK Yamaha draft in Benoit Paturel as a fill in rider

JK Racing Yamaha have confirmed that French rider Benoit Paturel will join their team as a temporary replacement for the injured Isak Gifting. Paturel is set to compete in the upcoming Italian Championship round at Fermo this weekend, as well as selected rounds of the MXGP World Championship in France and Germany. The arrangement is currently limited to these specific events, but a strong performance could pave the way for a longer-term contract later in the season. Paturel is well-acquainted with Yamaha machinery, having enjoyed significant success during his time with the factory Yamaha MX2 programme. More recently, he raced with the de Baets Yamaha squad in the MXGP World Championship before moving to the United States to compete in the AMA Pro Motocross Championship last season. His return to the MXGP paddock is seen as a positive development, both for the team and for Paturel, who will be eager to demonstrate his competitiveness at the highest level. JK Racing team owner Riccardo Boschi highlighted the importance of Paturel’s involvement, noting that Yamaha Italy places great value on the Italian Championship, which the team has missed two rounds of so far. Boschi expressed optimism about Paturel’s ability to contribute, particularly as the team currently lacks a 450cc rider. The opportunity offers Paturel a chance to re-establish himself in Europe’s top-tier motocross scene amid a challenging market for riders. This temporary deal underscores the fluid nature of rider line-ups in the current season, with injuries and market conditions prompting teams to seek flexible solutions. For Paturel, these upcoming races represent a critical opportunity to secure a more permanent position in the MXGP paddock. His performances in Italy and at the French and German rounds will be closely watched by teams and fans alike as he aims to reaffirm his status among the sport’s elite.