Ryuichi Kiyonari has been forced to withdraw from Portimao after the injury he sustained in the previous round at Magny-Cours proved to be too much.
The Ten Kate Honda rider broke his right collarbone in race one at the French round, echoing the same injury he suffered there in testing last season.
Kiyonari had hoped to take part in this weekends racing, which would mark his last race for Ten Kate but after suffering considerable pain he consulted medical staff at the track, and unfortunately was advised for safety reasons his continued participation in the final round was not possible.
Speaking after the announcement that Japanese ace said:“You can imagine that I am very disappointed to miss out on this final race of the season. I am especially sorry for my team, who have worked so hard this season. I would also like to apologise to Honda and the sponsors of the team.”
“I wanted to race but, after I spoke with doctors and the team, we decided that it was not possible. It’s a shame to end the season this way but now I want to get my shoulder fixed so that I am fit again for next year.”
Ronald ten Kate, team manager added his thoughts: “We all feel desperately sorry for Kiyonari-san who cannot be faulted for his commitment and desire to compete. This time, however, it was not possible because of pain from his shoulder and a general weakness in his right arm.”
“Of course, it’s not the way that any of us would want to see his season finish, but the important thing is his shoulder is allowed time to heal properly, in its own time. The whole team sends its best wishes to Kiyo for a speedy recovery and return to fitness.”
