Jake Dixon: His hand injury wasn’t the worst thing that’s ever happened to him

Jake Dixon might not have imagined his move from Moto2 to the 2026 World Superbike Championship would be easy, but he certainly expected it to be a bit more successful. The Englishman picked up an injury before the season opener and only made his racing debut on the Honda CBR1000 RR-R at Aragon. It was a comeback that came too soon, as the 30-year-old had to sit out race day on Sunday and the following round at Misano due to pain. It was not until the eighth round – his home race at Donington Park – that Dixon was able to complete the entire weekend. He has not managed to score any World Championship points in the four races so far.

Dixon has a strong support in his wife Sarah, and vice versa. Together, they have not only weathered the Honda works rider’s protracted hand injury, but also Sarah’s previous battle with cancer.

“Coming back from this latest injury was probably the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through in my life – apart from Sarah’s cancer, so it was the second worst,” said a visibly moved Dixon in an interview with TNT Sports. “Nothing else comes even close to that, because the thought that your wonderful wife might no longer be here is the worst thing in the world. I think a lot of people out there can relate to that.”

His worries about his wife – and the mother of his three-year-old daughter – had a profound effect on Dixon.

“Talking is the most important thing of all,” advises the Englishman, who lives in Andorra. “Life is complicated, whether you’re very successful or simply doing your best. You should always be open with the people close to you. And if you don’t have anyone, you should seek help. I saw a therapist, and Sarah saw a therapist. That’s not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. At the end of the day, we’re all in the same boat and want to make the best of our lives.”