MotoGP rider Ai Ogura revealed that he regrets listening to medical advice from Japanese doctors that kept him sidelined instead of returning to competition at the San Marino Grand Prix, according to statements reported across motorsport media outlets.
Misdiagnosis Sidelines Ogura During Autumn Stretch
Speaking from the paddock at the Red Bull Ring ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, the rider stated that a misdiagnosis ultimately cost him valuable racing time during the autumn stretch of the season.
Misplaced Trust in Initial Medical Evaluations
“I shouldn’t have listened to the Japanese doctors; I would have returned at Misano,” Ogura said, as documented by motorsport reporting sources covering the Austrian GP weekend. The rider confirmed that despite lingering questions surrounding his recovery timeline, medical personnel cleared him fit ahead of the Red Bull Ring sessions, subject to a final evaluation following the opening free practice.
The timeline of Ogura’s absence stems from an injury setback that forced him out of action during previous rounds. While medical evaluations initially pointed toward a prolonged recovery period, subsequent examinations in Europe provided a more optimistic outlook on the healing process of his hand. Reflecting on the missed opportunity at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, Ogura acknowledged that an earlier return was physically possible had he received an accurate initial assessment.
Rebuilding Machine Trust in Spielberg
Upon arriving in Spielberg for the Austrian Grand Prix, Ogura addressed media members regarding his current physical condition and mental approach to the race weekend.
“The hand feels good,” Ogura remarked during media availability on Day 1 at the Red Bull Ring. He added that he feels no undue pressure regarding his return to form, maintaining that matching his previous pace is simply a matter of rebuilding trust on the machine.
Premier Class Adaptation and Physical Demands
Weekend Schedule and Timing Updates
Official schedules confirm that Moto Grand Prix proceedings in Austria continue with subsequent practice sessions leading into qualifying and the main Grand Prix event. Fans and media can follow official MotoGP timing channels and team updates for real-time fitness re-evaluations following FP1.
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