Andrea Dovizioso has claimed he is “open to return” to the premier class after taking a sabbatical for the 2021 season.

The Italian ended an eight-year partnership with Bologna manufacturer, Ducati, and was left ‘unemployed’ for 2021. Dovizioso announced he would sit out the 2021 season with the hopes of returning for 2022; however, the three-times runner up hasn’t ruled out a return to action this year.

Repsol Honda could be Dovizioso’s only option of returning to premier class action, after their star, Marc Marquez, was sidelined after breaking his arm at Jerez last July. The Spaniard has since undergone three operations and is still in huge doubt as to whether he can return for the first half of the season.

This could give Dovizioso an opportunity to return to the paddock, however, crew chief, Santi Hernandez, reckons HRC should run Stefan Bradl, who deputised for Marquez in 2020.

‘Undaunted’ Dovi has registered his interest and is willing to take part in the Qatar test, following Sepang’s cancellation, aboard the HRC machine alongside new recruit Pol Espargaro.

The Qatar test is currently scheduled to take place on March 6th 2021.