Spanish MotoGP rider Joan Mir said he was ‘lucky’ after a massive crash in Austria left him hospitalised – but in good spirits.
The 2020 world champion went flying on one of the opening corners on the first lap of the race, recording his sixth DNF in the past nine races.
“Joan Mir’s horrendous 2022 just goes from bad to worse,” commentator Matt Birt said.
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Mir’s Suzuki Ecstar team provided an update on his condition later, saying that the 24-year-old had confirmed fractures and bone fragments in his right ankle.
“I made a good start – I was able to gain some positions and put myself in the front group,” the Spaniard said afterwards.
“I had a very big crash at turn four. I lost the rear and it was a high side. It could’ve been a lot worse, so I feel lucky,” the Spaniard said afterwards.
“Initial checks show some bone fragments and fractures in my ankle. Tomorrow I’ll go for further checks and an MRI.
“After that, I should know more about my recovery time and I can plan my comeback.”
Australia’s Jack Miller finished the race in third spot, behind Italy’s Francesco Bagnaia and France’s Fabio Quartararo, who finished in second, and is looking good value to defend his 2021 crown.
That podium finish was Quartararo’s seventh in 13 races this season, as he leads the standings ahead of Spain’s Aleix Espargaro. Miller currently sits in fifth.
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