Marc Marquez is set to miss this weekend’s MotoGP Czech grand prix at Brno after undergoing further surgery to the broken arm he suffered in the Spanish GP.
The world champion underwent emergency surgery a fortnight ago following a massive high-side while chasing Maverick Vinales for second in the Spanish GP, and was forced to pull out of the Andalucian GP as the broken humerus inflicted in the crash prevented him from completing a racer distance.
Marquez was expected to be fit enough to contest the Czech GP, but has since run into problems with the titanium plate that was installed into his arm to aid the healing process.
The plate “over-stressed” according to MotoGP doctor Xavier Mir, meaning it had to be replaced with a new one in Barcelona today.
Marquez will have to remain in hospital for a further 48 hours in order to determine a recovery time, potentially endangering his participation in the two Austrian rounds that directly follow the Czech GP and make up the first of 2020’s triple-headers.
“Marc Marquez underwent surgery 13 days ago and today he returned to the operating room,” read a statement from Dr Mir and Honda released Monday evening.
“The first operation was successful, what was not expected was that the plate was insufficient. An accumulation of stress in the operated area has caused the plate to suffer some damage, so today the titanium plate has been removed and replaced by a new fixation.
“The rider has not felt pain during this period. He has always followed the medical advice given and the feeling from his body. Unfortunately, an over stress has caused this issue. Now we have to wait 48 hours to understand the recovery time.”
Marquez missing further races will prove to be disastrous regarding any chances of retaining his MotoGP crown, with double-Jerez victor Fabio Quartararo and factory Yamaha man Maverick Vinales sure to take advantage of the absent Spaniard.
The fast and flowing Brno layouts-as well as the high-speed Red Bull Ring- have historically been strong circuits for the Ducati Desmosedici, potentially giving Andrea Dovizioso the opportunity to haul himself into title contention following a pair of sub-par Jerez outings.
Honda elected not to enter a second factory machine alongside Alex Marquez for the Andalucian GP prior to his brother’s attempt at taking part in the weekend, and the decision on whether they would replace him for Brno and beyond-the most likely candidate being test rider Stefan Bradl-would depend on the length of time Marquez is expected to be out.
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