Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS Honda’s Tito Rabat has undergone a successful operation on injuries sustained in a crash on the second day of pre-season testing at the Sepang International Circuit.
The 2014 Moto2 world champion had been hard at work evaluating several new components on his RC213V when he crashed heavily at Turn 11 during Tuesday’s running. His accident caused the session to be red-flagged briefly whilst he was recovered by the circuit’s medical team.
Initially taken to the track’s medical centre, he was transferred to the local hospital for further examination. Scans revealed Rabat had suffered fractures to his right hand and foot, as well as a laceration to his left knee.
He flew back home to Barcelona on the Tuesday evening, and underwent his operation at the Hospital Universitario Dexeus on Wednesday. The surgery was carried out by Dr. Xavier Mir and his team.
Rabat had the wound on his knee closed, as well as screws and a plate inserted into his fractured hand and foot to stabilise the injuries during the two-hour operation. He will remain in hospital for the next couple of days before being assessed again. It looks highly unlikely he will participate in the Phillip Island test later this month.
Finally finding confidence on the Honda after a bruising maiden campaign last season, these injuries are the last thing the Spaniard needs.
“The good news is that the surgery Tito had last night was successful,” said Marc VDS team boss Michael Bartholemy.
“Obviously the bad news is the extent of the injuries he sustained in the Sepang crash. The knee injury is the biggest issue because it was an open wound and the risk of infection is high, hence the need for him to stay in hospital over the weekend. On Monday, after a further assessment by doctors, we will have a clearer understanding of how long his rehabilitation will take and a realistic idea about a possible date for his return to action.
“We know Tito and he’s probably checking flights for the Phillip Island test from his hospital bed already, but he needs to be realistic too. It makes no sense for him to return until he’s fit enough for the physical demands that racing a MotoGP bike places on a rider.”
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