Jorge Lorenzo's participation in the French
MotoGP at Le Mans could be in doubt after further medical examinations revealed that the injuries he sustained in his practice crash in Shanghai are worse than initially feared.
The 20-year-old Fiat Yamaha rider – who took three podiums, including a win, in his first three races – was thrown from his bike during the Friday morning session in China after his rear tyre lost traction as he switched from right to left, propelling the young Spaniard through the air in spectacular fashion.
Initial reports confirmed that Lorenzo had suffered a fractured left ankle as well as severe trauma and bruising to his right ankle and foot, and he battled through the pain barrier to secure a fourth place finish in the latest round of the season.
However, on returning to Spain, Lorenzo was the taken to Barcelona's Institut Universitari Dexeus for further examination where it was determined that he has also broken an astralagus bone in his right ankle and broken a ligament in the left one.
Although he won't need to undergo surgery for the injuries, Lorenzo has now been confined to a wheelchair to immobilise both ankles with further tests having been scheduled for next Monday when Dr Xavier Mir – the man who operated on Lorenzo's arm after his Estoril win – will make a more detailed evaluation of the state of the injuries.
It will then be cleared as to whether Lorenzo will be able to contest the French event, which is due to take place on 18 May.
