MotoGP rider Pol Espargaro has been diagnosed with a pulmonary contusion, jaw fracture and a fractured dorsal vertebra following his high-speed crash at the Portuguese Grand Prix.
The Spanish Tech 3 rider was seen barrel rolling through the gravel in a scary crash at turn ten in Portimao during Friday practice.
His bike was an instant write off, while medics tended to Espargaro at the barrier he appeared to hit. He was thankfully conscious.
The 31-year-old has been ruled out of the rest of the season opener with his team saying he hopes to return home next week.
Espargaro was seen coming over the crest at turn ten, where he was reportedly caught out by a cold rear tyre in second practice, with his KTM bike quickly shaking him off, throwing him to the tarmac.
He then went on a terrifying roll into the barriers, and was then diagnosed with back and chest trauma but declared conscious.
After receiving treatment at the track, Espargaro was taken to Faro hospital, and MotoGP’s medical director has since offered the following update.
“Pol Espargaro has had a high-intensity crash and suffered multiple traumas,” Dr. Angel Charte said.
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“To determine the extent, he will need to be evaluated via further examination at Faro hospital, specifically his spine.
“His oxygen levels are good, but he has quite a significant lung contusion, the extent of which we will need to confirm with CT scans and MRIs at Faro hospital.
“He has suffered severe spinal trauma and a contusion to his lungs which we will have to monitor closely. Although I think he will recover well, we need to conduct the appropriate tests to determine the extent of his injuries.
“He is conscious, alert, and responding well. He is slightly sedated due to the painkillers we have administered. He can move his feet, legs, and arms perfectly well, so there is no reason to fear any permanent spinal injury.”
Keen to avoid a repeat, an air fence has now been installed at turn ten, adding to extra safety measures at turn one and turn two.
