Chris Vermeulen replaces Colin Edwards for Le Mans MotoGP race

Vermeulen, who has more than four years of experience in MotoGP, scored Suzuki's only four-stroke win in the class at the French circuit back in 2007.

Edwards, who has now left hospital following the successful surgery on his broken collarbone, has been advised by regular MotoGP surgeon Dr Javier Mir not to race until the Spanish Grand Prix, a fortnight after Le Mans.

Vermeulen said he was grateful for the opportunity to once again compete in the sport's premier class, particularly at a circuit at which he has such fond memories.

"First of all I would like to wish Colin a speedy recovery," the 29-year-old said. "I am grateful to have the opportunity to race back in MotoGP with the Forward Racing team.

"I am looking forward to my first time on the bike being at Le Mans, a circuit that holds great memories for me including a victory in 2007. I am excited to be racing at the top level of motorcycling again and look forward to working with the team."

Forward Racing's managing director Marco Curioni said he expected Vermeulen to immediately find a good feeling with the team.

"In this unfortunate situation that sees Colin Edwards unable to race until the Catalunya GP, we take the opportunity to involve Chris Vermeulen in the team for Le Mans," Curioni said.

"Several members of the team have previously worked with him and I believe that Chris will immediately find a good feeling with the team. [He] has previously won at Le Mans and knows the track well. I would like to wish Chris good luck and send all my best wishes for a quick recovery to Colin, who is on his way back home."