Team HRC has called in Australia’s Todd Waters to deputise for injured MXGP World Championship regular Brian Bogers, set to pilot the works Honda CRF450RW in upcoming grands prix.

Waters, 27, was due to contest the American Pro Motocross series as a privateer, however it appears those plans have been put on hold since signing to join former champion Tim Gajser at HRC.

“Words can’t tell how excited I am not only to be back in MXGP, but to be doing so with Team HRC,” Waters explained. “It’s a dream come true, so I really want to thank them for this huge opportunity. Obviously I would like to wish Brian a speedy recovery, because every racer knows how hard is to be forced to be at home and watch other riders compete.

“I feel I have been putting in the work to be ready for my season debut in Latvia, although I know as it’s round seven that my rivals have built their speed in the meantime. Being more mature and experienced this time around, I know what to expect from spending time in Europe and what it means in terms of different type of living and culture.

“I feel more prepared and therefore ready to focus on what needs to be done. I want to show what I’m capable of and play my chances to get another shot at MXGP in the future, because that’s where I feel I belong. I really look forward to working with such a high-calibre racing team and to be back travelling around the world.”

HRC general manager (MXGP) Marcus Pereira de Freitas commented: “We are happy to welcome Todd in our team. Given Brian’s new injury, we could not continue with only one rider in the MXGP class, so we had to find a suitable replacement for him for the time-being.

“It was not an easy task, as the season is fully underway, but we’re very glad to have reached an agreement with Todd. He has raced already in the MXGP class some years ago and he’s been riding a Honda back in the national Australian championship, so he’s the perfect fit for the team.

“I’m confident he’ll gel well with both team and the bike, and I’m sure he’s more than happy to have another opportunity to show his potential in the championship. In the meantime, I would like to wish Brian a speedy and full recovery, and look forward to having him back soon.”

Waters spent two years in the MXGP World Championship between 2014 and 2015, clinching ninth in his second season including a podium finish of third in Italy.