Nicky Hayden will miss the MotoGP race at Brno

The Ducati team has announced that at the Czech Republic Grand Prix only their rider Valentino Rossi will take part, with Nicky Hayden out again due to his right-hand injury, undoubtedly a very unfortunate crash for the 69 at Indy that has left him unable to compete in his home race and in Brno.

Hayden has stayed in the United States to recover from the injury, and will miss this round, coming so soon after Indy, and he hopes to be ready for the Misano Grand Prix. So it’s bad news for the Ducati rider who, in recent races and practice sessions, was the face of the Italian brand, with the best positions and results, undoubtedly an important loss for them.

Furthermore, Ducati has also announced that they will have no replacement for Hayden at the Brno round. It has been decided that the American’s machine will stay in the garage without going out on track, so the only official MotoGP bike on the circuit will be Valentino Rossi’s.

Undoubtedly a shame for Hayden, who was in great form, and a lot of pressure for Rossi, who will be the only factory rider on track.

Statements from Nicky Hayden:

It’s hard to skip another race. I don’t have major problems, but my hand is still very swollen and I don’t have much strength, and of course, injuries to the right hand are the worst for riders.

I would have been below 100%, and if I used a lot of force or fell to the ground again, the fractures could shift and become a bigger problem. Obviously, the head is very important, and after the time I was unconscious I still have pain in that area. Most importantly, the doctors told me it was a bad idea to race in Brno, and my whole team has agreed.

As much as I don’t like staying home and losing points, I have to listen to the experts and try to heal and prepare for Misano. It is a very important race for me and for Ducati, and I am going to work at the rehabilitation center to the maximum to get back in shape as best I can. I don’t like it, but it’s what has to be done.

Source | Ducati team