MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Maverick Vinales of Red Bull KTM Tech3 has withdrawn from the remainder of the 2026 United States MotoGP at COTA due to complications with a left shoulder injury that now requires surgery.
The issue stems from a previous injury sustained last season, with further medical evaluation in Austin revealing a structural complication. A CT scan confirmed that one of the screws inserted during earlier treatment had shifted out of position.
The displaced screw was found to be interfering with surrounding soft tissue, directly impacting muscle function and limiting power delivery from his left arm. This posed a critical limitation in controlling the bike, particularly at a circuit like COTA where stability under acceleration and braking is essential.
“I experienced a different type of pain after Brazil. We did a CT scan here and realised that one screw is coming out of place.”
“It’s touching some tissue and is stopping the power from my arm. So I need to remove it. That’s the only option.”
The decision to withdraw was made following medical advice at the circuit, with doctors warning of significant risk if Vinales continued to ride. Any further crash involving the affected area could have resulted in severe damage.
“The doctors told me that if I crash and impact that area, I can make a big damage. So there was no sense to keep going.”
Vinales is scheduled to undergo surgery on Tuesday to remove the screw. The procedure is considered minor, with an initial recovery period of approximately two weeks before resuming intensive training.
However, the Spaniard emphasized a conservative recovery approach, stating he will only return once fully fit, given the physical demands of MotoGP competition.
“They say it’s not a major operation, just removing the screw and letting the tissue heal. Two weeks and then start training hard.”
“But I prefer to be more conservative. I will come back when I feel 100% and can ride at my level.”
This physical setback also impacts his long-term outlook, including any considerations regarding his MotoGP 2027 future. Vinales made it clear that no decisions will be made until he is fully recovered.
“Until I am 100%, I have no options. I don’t want to race if I’m not fully fit. I don’t want to be here just to go around. I want to be here to win.”
Meanwhile, KTM maintained a competitive presence during Friday sessions, with Pedro Acosta and fellow Tech3 rider Enea Bastianini both securing top-ten finishes to advance directly into Q2.
This ensures KTM remains strategically positioned despite the absence of one of its experienced riders at a crucial stage of the weekend. Attention now turns to Vinales’ recovery timeline, with a potential return targeted for Jerez, which will serve as a key benchmark for his 2026 campaign going forward.
Baca Juga
Marc Marquez pimpin Practice MotoGP Amerika 2026 di COTA usai crash besar, dalam sesi penuh insiden dan strategi ban krusial.
Maverick Vinales jalani operasi bahu usai MotoGP Amerika 2026, jelaskan sekrup longgar dan dampaknya ke rencana musim 2027.
Marc Marquez jelaskan crash COTA MotoGP 2026 akibat kesalahan besar dan adaptasi lintasan bergelombang di Austin.
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