Ai Ogura to Miss Second Consecutive MotoGP Race Due to Injury

Ai Ogura will miss his second consecutive MotoGP race due to a left thumb injury sustained during a motocross training accident. After sitting out the round at MotorLand Aragon last month, he will also be absent from this weekend's race in Misano.

Ogura underwent surgery on his thumb in Barcelona on August 27, and a follow-up check-up was scheduled for September 8. The medical team, led by Dr. Xavier Mir, advised against competing in Misano, citing the track's demanding nature, which could exacerbate his injury.

The team aims for Ogura's return at the Austrian Grand Prix, where the track layout is expected to be less strenuous. His absence has impacted his championship standing, increasing his points deficit from 37 to 53 behind the leader. The current mindset in MotoGP emphasizes the importance of full recovery before returning to racing, reflecting a shift in how injuries are managed in the sport.