Stoner crashes heavily in Indy qualifying

MotoGP World Championship title challenger Casey Stoner has been taken to the medical centre after crashing spectacularly during the early stages of qualifying at Indianapolis.

The reigning champion was chasing an early advantage when his Repsol Honda broke away from him on the exit of turn 13 and catapulted him into a high-speed accident, the Australian proceeding to land heavily on his legs.

Coming just eight minutes into the hour-long session, a fully conscious and gesticulating Stoner was stretchered away by marshals where he was originally treated for a suspected ankle fracture in the medical centre.

However, it has now been announced that Stoner has escaped a bone break, but has torn ligaments in his right ankle. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to compete for the remainder of the weekend.

Stoner isn't the only rider to have suffered a nasty accident during the session with Ben Spies high-siding on the entry to turn 13 whilst on a potential provisional pole-winning lap, while Nicky Hayden's fall with eight minutes remaining brought out the red flags.

We will update on the condition of all three riders as we get it