Ben Spies withdraws from Mugello GP

Ben Spies’ failure to fully recover a shoulder injury he sustained last October has forced the Texan to withdraw from the Italian Grand Prix at Mugello.

The Texan had skipped the Jerez and Le Mans rounds in an effort to concentrate on his fitness, but it appears to be in vein as he is still struggling with strength issues in his shoulder.

A press release from the Ignite Pramac team said:

“Unfortunately yesterday’s free practice sessions highlighted the muscular problems still afflicting Ben Spies.

“The intense rehabilitation activities which the Texan has undergone in the last 4 weeks have brought about a clear improvement but it still not sufficient for Spies to demonstrate his true potential on the track.

“After an analysis of the situation, the Pramac Racing Team, Ducati Corse and the rider have taken the mutual decision to continue rehabilitation and physiotherapy and to interrupt all track activities to allow Ben to complete his total physical recovery.

“In the next few days Ben Spies will undergo further medical checks in order to have a clearer appraisal of the situation and evaluate the treatment to be followed for full recovery.”

Spies’ participation in the Catalan Grand Prix in two weeks time will now be a question mark after Spies’ stating that he still won’t be fully fit for “2-3 months”.