Lorenzo withdraws from Race of Champions

London fans will not get the chance to see Jorge Lorenzo in action at this weekend’s Race of Champions following the Spaniard’s decision to withdraw from the event.

Lorenzo suffered second degree burns to his leg during a civic function to celebrate his title success in his native Mallorca. Lorenzo’s spot in the RoC will be taken by Sir Chris Hoy.

“I’m really sad that I cannot go to the Race Of Champions this year but during the celebrations in Mallorca I burned my leg on the bike,” said Lorenzo. “I really hoped it would heal by now but due to potential complications from sweating inside the overalls, the doctors have forbidden me to do it. I know I would have had great fans supporting me in London so I’m sorry to be missing it. This is a great event and I hope you all enjoy watching all the action. Now I will try as hard as possible to be back at the Race Of Champions next year instead.”

Hoy, a six times Olympic champion, has raced this year in the European Le Mans Series.