Márquez won't race in Americas MotoGP, cites hand injury
MotoGP rider Marc Marquez of Spain walks in the paddock after getting injured in a crash during the Portugal Motorcycle Grand Prix, at the Algarve International circuit near Portimao, Portugal, Sunday, March 26, 2023. Credit: AP/Jose Breton
MADRID — Marc Márquez said Tuesday he will miss the MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas this weekend because his hand hasn't fully healed after surgery.
The six-time MotoGP champion had already missed the Argentine MotoGP after undergoing surgery to repair his right hand's first metacarpal that he fractured in a crash at the season-opening Portuguese MotoGP.
Márquez had two screws inserted into his hand. He said the decision not to race in Austin, Texas, was made after his doctor analyzed the result of his latest CAT scan.
“The bone is still in the process of healing,” Márquez said on Twitter. “We have decided not to take any risks and therefore I won't be able to ride in Austin. I will continue working and rehabilitating as I have been doing so far to be able to get back on the bike as soon as possible.”
Race officials penalized Márquez for “irresponsible riding” that led to the crash in Portugal. He was handed a double long lap penalty, which requires riding through an area of the track designed to add extra time to the lap.
Márquez had apologized to everyone affected by his error.
The Spaniard has struggled with injuries that have required several surgeries in recent years.
MotoGP rider Marc Marquez of Spain walks in the paddock after getting injured in a crash during the Portugal Motorcycle Grand Prix, at the Algarve International circuit near Portimao, Portugal, Sunday, March 26, 2023. Credit: AP/Jose Breton
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