Injury update: Mathis Valin (Kawasaki) following the Agueda crash

Following his crash in the qualifying race for the Portuguese Grand Prix, the race had to be stopped under a red flag because Mathis Valin was left lying on the ground, dazed. The Frenchman had taken the holeshot and was leading the race ahead of World Championship leader Sacha Coenen (KTM). He jumped one table too far, landed on a bump on the flat section, lost control of the bike and was thrown over the handlebars. Fortunately, after a few minutes he was able to walk away from the scene of the accident under his own steam, but was declared ‘unfit’ by the race doctor on Sunday. He was also fitted with a neck brace for safety reasons.

During Sunday’s races, however, Mathis was already optimistic that he would be able to compete again soon, possibly even as early as next weekend in South Africa. But that is not to be. Examinations this week revealed a vertebral contusion as well as an unspecified wrist injury.

Valin expresses his disappointment

“This is a bitter disappointment,” said Valin. “I don’t feel any pain in my body, but I will, of course, follow the doctor’s advice and focus on my recovery now. I’d like to thank the team for their unwavering support.”

“Unfortunately, that’s part of the sport and things like this do happen from time to time,” explained KRT team manager Antti Pyrhönen. “We have to accept it. The marshals and paramedics in Portugal did a brilliant job. Now it’s up to the medical team to get Mathis back to 100 per cent fitness. It will take time, but Mathis has a very positive attitude.”