Lack of power in wrist causes Rabat to withdraw from Motegi

Tito Rabat’s decision to withdraw from this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix has handed the Moto2 title to Johann Zarco. The Spaniard fractured his wrist in the lead-up to this weekend’s race and after completing eight laps in opening practice he decided that he simply wasn’t fit enough to compete with a lack of power in the wrist the culprit.

“There was little pain, but I just didn’t have the power in the injured arm needed to cope with the hard braking areas here at Motegi,” said Rabat. “To continue this weekend would have made no sense. The championship is gone and second place is not worth the risk of crashing again and making the injury worse. I am disappointed we weren’t able to fight to the end, but congratulations to Johann Zarco on the championship. He’s ridden a faultless season and will be a worthy champion.”

Marc VDS team principal, Michael Bartholemy, agreed that the risk of injury was too great given how difficult it would have been for Rabat to have claimed the title and that a decision on whether Rabat will race next weekend, at Philip Island, will be taken during the week.

“We will assess the injury again next week before making a decision about Tito’s participation in the Australian GP. With Tito unable to ride this weekend it means that Johann Zarco will be crowned as Moto2 World Champion here. Congratulations to him; he’s been impressive this season.”