Spaniard to ride in place of injured Hafizh

Moto2 rider Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah, who suffered a horror crash at the Austrian GP at the Red Bull Ring last weekend, will miss the Styrian Grand Prix this week. Spaniard Alejandro Medina will replace the Malaysian, who is still recuperating from the injury he sustained.

MotoE rider Medina will team up with countryman Aron Canet for this weekend’s race at the same circuit.

Aspar Racing Team rider Hafizh was hoping to get back on the bike again this week after escaping serious injury but he has been declared unfit by the medical team.

Hafizh conceded that he has not fully recovered but vowed to make a return at the San Marino and Rimini GP at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli in Italy on Sept 13 and 20.

“I wanted to take part in the upcoming race, but I’m still feeling the pain due to the injuries from the crash, last weekend. I went through some tests, I tried to endure the pain but it was too much to bear,” said Hafizh.

“Honestly, I was still thinking of riding the bike, I want to see how I feel on the bike but I couldn’t test the bike on Friday because of the pain ... the doctor advised me to take a good rest.”

“I’m feeling better day by day, but it is important for me to prioritise my recovery before thinking about racing.”

In last weekend’s race, Moto2 championship leader Enea Bastianini was reported to have lost control in turn one, before dashing for the safety barrier, leaving his bike in the middle of the track.

Hafizh who was speeding towards the turn, was unable to avoid the Italian’s bike and crashed onto it, and his machine was seen shattering to pieces in the air.

The 26-year-old rider is currently in 16th spot in the Moto2 World Championship standings with 17 points after five races.

“I will come back stronger for the upcoming races and I thank everyone who had prayed for my health and well-being.” he added.