Rizla Suzuki’s Álvaro Bautista suffered a broken left femur from a fast crash in the closing stages of today’s third practice session in Qatar. The accident immediately ended his participation in this weekend’s season opener.


Bautista landed heavily after high-siding at turn 15 and immediately looked in serious discomfort. He was instantly taken to the circuit’s superb medical facilities and examined by members of the Clinica Mobile. After a thorough examination and some x-rays, he was diagnosed with a break to his left femur which will need to be pinned. Bautista was immediately taken to the Hamad Medical Corporation in Doha for further tests, before a decision will be taken whether to operate in Qatar, or for him to return to Spain.

Further information on Bautista’s condition will be updated as soon as more information is available.