Sickbay: Preseason kills first MXGP toppers!
The starting field of the opening GP in Argentina suffered a major blow last weekend. Less than two weeks from the competition in Patagonia, there are major questions about the physical preparedness of Tim Gajser and Arnaud Tonus, among others.
Honda quickly released an update on the condition of the 2016 MXGP world champion on Sunday evening. Tim Gajser fell to the ground with a hard blow in the third and final round of the Internazionali d'Italia. (Check out the video here) The Slovenian first appeared to hit his head on the handlebars of his CRF450R when he jumped too far.
According to eyewitnesses, Gajser had slipped from his footrests. Although the 21-year-old star pilot remained motionless and there was initially fear of a concussion, the 'damage' was limited to a double jaw fracture. For this, “Tiga” immediately underwent surgery on Sunday evening.
HRC indicated that they will further explain Gajser's condition as the injury evolves. Still, it's hard to imagine Tim being able to compete – let alone be competitive – in Neuquen on March 3 and 4. Since Brian Bogers is also still out of action, Tim Gajser's injury places HRC Honda in a very unpleasant situation. In all likelihood, “Tiga” will have to miss the first GP. He hopes to be there again in Valkenswaard.
Tonus and Guillod
In Lacapelle Marival, France, Wilvo Yamaha's Arnaud Tonus was the victim of a fall during morning training. Tonus is said to have suffered a dislocated shoulder. Because the team is awaiting further investigation, little is known about the consequences of this crash. Teammate Shaun Simpson, who finished fourth in France, already supported Tonus on Instagram on Sunday evening: “I would also like to wish my teammate @arnaudtonus a quick recovery after his fall. I hope you'll be back soon.”
There were positive messages from Lacappelle for the Standing Construct KTM team. The returning Kevin Strijbos returned to competition after a broken collarbone. With a nice 5th place in the second round and a 6th place in the Super Final, 'The Kid' showed that he is on the right track. For Guillod, it will take longer after his leg break before we see him in action again. It is expected that it will not be until April that Guillod can drive back.
Tekst: Adam Wheeler
Photos: Off Road Pro Racing, Yamaha, MXJuly/Standing Construct
Also to read
Perfect weekend for Maxi Nagl
The second race of the ADAC MX Masters was dominated by Maxi Nagl. The KMP Honda rider managed to triumph in three heats on the Dreetz circuit. Second place is…Kooiker wins everything, Mesters in the lead
The second match of the ADAC Youngster Cup was won by Dave Kooiker. The KTM rider managed to win all three heats on the Dreetz circuit. …VIDEO: Nancy van de Ven explains her work for MXGP Academy
During the MXGP of Spain, an MXGP Academy was held to guide young motocross riders. Nancy van de Ven hung up her helmet and is now an official…Ernecker wins again, Gregoire second!
Maximilian Ernecker (F4E GasGas) also won the second race of the ADAC Junior Cup 125cc in Dreetz. The Austrian managed to win both heats. Dean Gregoire (Schmicker Racing-KTM) became…
Your reactions