[kropotkin thinks...] - Hector Barbera Breaks Leg In Training Crash, Out For Laguna S

[Ninjette Newsbot]

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Hector Barbera is the latest victim of training injuries to be forced to miss a race. The Spaniard broke both bones in his lower left leg while training, and will not be fit in time for next weekend's Red Bull US GP at Laguna Seca. The Spaniard is to be treated at the Dexeus Clinic in Barcelona by Dr Mir, the famous Spanish surgeon responsible for fixing up most of the MotoGP paddock. Dr Mir will perform surgery to fix the bones in Barbera's left leg, after which he, Barbera and the team will assess Barbera's recovery period.

The press release issued by the team stated that they will await the outcome of surgery before making any further announcements. Recovery period - or rather, motorcycle racer recovery period - for breaking both bones in the leg is around 6 weeks, meaning Barbera could also miss Indianapolis and possibly Brno. The team will not have to field a replacement at Laguna Seca - the MotoGP grid will be increased anyway thanks to the Attack Performance Kawasaki CRT entry to be ridden by Steve Rapp - but if Barbera is forced to skip Indy and Brno, then Pramac will have to find someone to take Barbera's place. At the moment, American rider Kenny Noyes is Barbera's official replacement, but no formal announcement has been made.

Below is the press release from Pramac on Barbera's injury:

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