Joan Mir: 'Initial checks show bone fragments and fractures'

Joan Mir is feared to have suffered fractures to his right ankle during Sunday's opening lap accident at the Austrian MotoGP.
Joan Mir, MotoGP race, British MotoGP, 7 August
Joan Mir, MotoGP race, British MotoGP, 7 August

The Suzuki rider was up to sixth place, from eighth on the grid, when he was thrown into a huge highside from his GSX-RR.

“I made a good start; I was able to gain some positions and put myself in the front group," said the 2020 world champion.

"But then at Turn 4, I lost the rear on corner entry and I suffered a very big crash. I feel lucky because it could’ve been a lot worse, it was a scary one.

"Initial checks show some bone fragments and fractures in my ankle - the fracture doesn’t look big but the fragments could be a problem.

"Tomorrow I’ll go for some further tests, such as an MRI scan to check the ligament situation.

"After that, I should know more about my recovery time and I can plan my comeback.”

Sunday's accident continues a torrid run for Mir, who has suffered six DNFs in the last nine races, leaving him twelfth in the standings and without a podium finish.

With Suzuki quitting MotoGP, the #36 is set to join Repsol Honda next season, although the move is yet to be officially announced.

Mir now has until September 2-4 to be fit for the next round at Misano, which is followed by a two-day test.

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Team-mate Alex Rins finished eighth on Sunday.

"This race was one we marked on the calendar as being a tough one for us," Rins said. "I got into ninth place behind Zarco and I had a stronger rhythm than him, but I found it very hard to overtake him on the brakes. I was also losing a bit on the drive out of the corners.

"In the end I got eighth, but we took a lot of information and data today, the feedback is going to be really important for the next rounds. Misano is next up and that place suits us better! I wish Joan the best after his scary crash.”

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