Avintia has confirmed that its rider Loris Baz will not race at the up-coming Dutch TT at Assen, with his MotoGP return being delayed to next month’s round in Germany.
Baz picked up a foot injury during the Italian Grand Prix after a first corner collision. He was forced to skip the following event at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain.
He had hoped to return in The Netherlands at the Assen track but while rehab is going well, doctors have said he will not be able to race in Germany. Michele Pirro will replace him once again.
"I’m really disappointed to not be able to ride in Assen,” Baz explained. “This was my target after the crash in Mugello.
“But to be honest, from the very first moment the doctors told me that being ready for Assen would be really difficult.
“I tried my best from the beginning, but I’ll have to wait until next Thursday to remove some metals I have on my foot, and it will be impossible to ride the bike just on Friday.
“It’s a shame because I love Assen and I have some good memories like the WSBK lap record. Last year I enjoyed racing there, but I’m eager to get back to my garage and work with my guys to solve the problems.
“I would like to be there, but I’m forced to wait a couple of weeks and head Germany with a stronger foot. Everything is going perfect and I work hard every day.
“I want to wish good luck to Hector, I’ll be supporting him from home. And also to Pirro, so he can get a good result for the team. See you in Sachsenring."