Replacement rider for Red Bull at Donington.

Red Bull Yamaha's team Manager Peter Clifford has announced that a replacement rider will pilot the injured Garry McCoy's machine at next Sunday's British Grand Prix at Donington.

"Although we are under no contractual obligation to do so, out of respect for the sport, the British Public and our Sponsors, we are looking to put another rider on Garry's bike for the Donington GP," explained Clifford. "At the moment we are considering a number of interesting possibilities, but there are still a few details to be sorted out before we make any final decision."

McCoy explained his decision to withdraw from both tomorrow's Dutch TT and the British GP: "I'm OK for one or two laps, but to ride at 100% for 20 laps is a whole different story. Yesterday, for example, I got a little out of shape and had to run off the track rather than fight the bike - I just don't have the necessary level of control at the moment."

"This is the longest I have ever been out with an injury and obviously I am very disappointed not to be able to ride, but the risks are too great and it would be a shame to wait this long and then throw it all away," added the Australian.

"This type of fracture (scaphoid) is very delicate and it is only 6 weeks since his accident - normally you are looking at between two and three months," commented Philippe Vidal, McCoy's Trainer. "If he can't ride here, then logically he won't be able to ride at Donington in one week's time. Given that it is too late now to fight for the championship, we want to wait until he is 100% fit and capable of winning, rather than have him just riding round to pick up a few points."

Teammate Noriyuki Haga crashed out heavily from today's second qualifying session at Assen, and will start the race from thirteenth place.