MotoGP: Thumb surgery for Espargaro

Suzuki MotoGP rider Aleix Espargaro will undergo surgery on a thumb injury on Tuesday following his French Grand Prix practice crash at Le Mans last weekend.

Espargaro had a huge high-side accident during Saturday morning practice, landing heavily on his back and right hand after being launched into the air when he lost control under acceleration.

Despite considerable pain from the incident, the Spaniard was able to make it through Q1 and into the pole shootout hours later, qualifying 10th.

His race ended with a clutch failure after just two laps.

He was examined by regular MotoGP surgeon Dr Xavier Mir on Monday and was diagnosed with ligament damage that will require surgery.

"Aleix suffered a rupture in the ulnar collateral ligament of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the right thumb, confirmed by ultrasound and x-rays," said Dr Mir.

"This injury causes joint instability and therefore a surgical repair is necessary."

Espargaro intends to be fit to contest the next MotoGP round at Mugello in a fortnight.

He has made a strong start to his first season as a factory rider, leading Suzuki's MotoGP comeback.

Second on the Termas de Rio Hondo grid is the highlight so far and he holds ninth in the championship after three top-eight finishes from the opening five grands prix.

Originally on Autosport.com