Valencia MotoGP: Carlos Checa back in hospital for more tests

Spanish veteran Carlos Checa will return to a Valencia hospital tonight for more blood tests as he continues to suffer from stomach problems in his last MotoGP weekend.

The LCR Honda rider was rushed to hospital at 10pm last night by ambulance after complaining of severe stomach pains.

He was detained overnight while doctors monitored his condition, believed to be an intestine infection, and missed this morning’s third and final free practice session. He was discharged from hospital to qualify for tomorrow’s 30-lap race, but the 35-year-old was still in some discomfort and he will return to hospital for more blood tests tonight.

Checa is hoping to be fit for tomorrow’s race, which will be his premier class swansong after 220 races in the 125, 250 and MotoGP classes. He produced a rousing effort in qualifying and will start ninth on the grid, with a best time of 1.32.273 just 0.756s off Dani Pedrosa’s fourth successive pole position.

Checa, who is quitting MotoGP to move to the World Superbike championship with the Ten Kate Honda squad, said: “Last night I suffered excruciating stomach pains which appears to be from an infection or obstruction in my intestine. I was amazed this morning when I had recovered enough to ride, so I returned for qualifying and I’m very satisfied to be ninth on the grid. I will return to the hospital for a second blood test tonight so that doctors can confirm their diagnosis. I can only have a liquid diet and continue to take a medicine, with some mild laxative, and hope that I can complete the 30 laps tomorrow. This is my final grand prix so it is important for me and my fans and friends in Spain.”