RAZGATLIOGLU FACES STRENGTH LOSS AFTER SHOULDER DISLOCATION

Toprak Razgatlioglu is preparing for a demanding Indonesian Grand Prix after dislocating his right shoulder in a highside during final practice at Mandalika. The Pramac Yamaha rider had started the weekend encouraged by his Friday pace and thought a top-ten result might be possible, but the crash abruptly changed his plans.

His shoulder was put back in place, and after being checked at the medical centre he returned for qualifying and Saturday’s Sprint. He finished the Sprint 19th, the same position from which he started. The 27-lap Grand Prix, however, presents a much greater physical test.

Razgatlioglu said reduced strength is a bigger concern than pain. “Still I feel pain, but this is normal because the shoulder is out,” he said during Sunday’s rider parade. “But when you put it back in, just the biggest problem is you don’t feel the power like before.”

He expects the circuit’s heat and frequent changes of direction to make the race especially difficult. “This is my biggest problem today because the race is 27 laps and it’s very difficult especially here,” he said. “Anyway, I will try my best. I hope to finish.”

The former WorldSBK champion also explained that painkillers helped him get through the previous day, but did not eliminate the discomfort. “Yesterday I did the race with painkillers, but in the end you feel the pain as well,” he said. “We will see, 27 laps will be very difficult.”