Share

Marquez fractures fibula

Madrid - MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez fractured his right leg during dirt track practice in Spain, his team announced on Thursday, but he hopes to be fit in time for the season-opening Qatar Grand Prix.

The 21-year-old Spaniard, who last year became the youngest rider ever to win the world title, and the first rookie to win in 35 years, was injured on Wednesday and could be out for three to four weeks, Repsol Honda said.

Marquez's injury comes just a month before the MotoGP championship resumes in Qatar on March 23.

But a "full recovery" is expected in time for the Losail race, a statement on Honda's Facebook page reported.

Marquez broke his fibula in Lleida, west of Barcelona, on Wednesday afternoon and was taken to the Quiron Dexeus University Hospital, where surgeon Xavier Mir confirmed there was no need for an operation, it said.

"It was a really unfortunate accident that could happen to anyone at anytime," Marquez was quoted as saying.

"I was rushed to hospital and Dr. Mir treated me. Thankfully, there was no ligament damage and it seems like a clean break."

Marquez will miss next week's Sepang test and possibly the following week's in Phillip Island, Australia, Honda said.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE