Nieto will have to get used to the new bike before the weekend

Jacque failed to recover from an arm injury suffered in practice for the China MotoGP so Nieto rides at Le Mans, where he won the 250cc race in 2002.

"I don't know what it'll be like on a MotoGP bike but it's a great experience," said Nieto.

"These people are trusting me, I'll try my best not to let them down."

Jacque suffered a major puncture wound causing severe laceration and muscle damage to his right forearm in the Shanghai crash, reducing his arm mobility.

SPORT EDITORS' BLOG On Sunday, MotoGP Extra is on BBC TWO rather than via the red button Motorsport producer Belinda Rogerson

"It's a shame this has happened now as the bike's improved considerably since the start of the season," he said.

Team manager Ian Wheeler said the 33-year-old had "no choice but to withdraw" considering the extent of his injuries, but he should be fit to return at the next race in Italy on 3 June.