Ryuichi Kiyonari faces a race against time to get fit in time for the World Superbike season finale in Portugal after being diagnosed with a broken collarbone in crash at Magny-Cours.

Already hampered by a shoulder injury sustained in an accident during free practice, Kiyonari was making progress from his 17th position on the grid when he crashed out at Lycee on lap four of the opening race.

Unfortunately for him, he wasn't able to get away uninjured, Kiyonari breaking the same collarbone he damaged during a test session around the French circuit last season.

With Kiyonari not expected to retain his ride with Ten Kate Honda next season, Kiyonari has just three weeks to return to full fitness and compete in the final round of the year.

“I am very disappointed because I think we showed that we had some pace on Friday morning. After the crash in the afternoon, I have been in pain for all the sessions but was not feeling too bad for the races today.

“I was trying to pass Shakey Byrne just before the last chicane, but I think I got a bit close and used too much brake. That was it and I am very sorry for my team and all the hard work they have done for me recently. I will go back to Japan now and have another operation and hopefully I will be OK for Portimao.”