Lorenzo's injuries worse than thought

From Yamaha Racing

Having flown straight back to Spain on Sunday night following his stunning ride to fourth place in the MotoGP round in Shanghai last weekend, Fiat Yamaha Team rider Jorge Lorenzo visited the Dexeus Institute in Barcelona on Monday morning for further examination of his ankle injuries by world-renowned specialist Dr. Xavier Mir.

Dr. Mir, who had only operated on Lorenzo two weeks ago to relieve compartmental syndrome in his right forearm, was keen to carry out his own diagnosis on the injuries sustained during free practice for the Grand Prix of China, which the Clinica Mobile had treated to great effect in Shanghai in order to allow Lorenzo to ride.

The injuries were confirmed to be slightly worse than first thought, especially to the right ankle, which was originally thought to have escaped fracture. A 3D CAT scan of both ankles revealed a fracture of the Astragalus in the right ankle (no displacement) and torn lateral internal ligament in the left ankle.

Treatment now consists of a solid cast for Lorenzo's right ankle and an elastic support for his left, temporarily confining him to a wheelchair.

"Next Monday we will carry out more tests and make a detailed evaluation of the injuries suffered to both ankles," commented Dr. Mir.

Lorenzo lies second in the MotoGP World Championship after taking a victory, a second place, a third and a fourth from the opening four rounds. He now faces a battle to be fit for the Grand Prix of France at Le Mans on May 18.