Danilo Petrucci shares comeback date with more surgery planned

Danilo Petrucci has been ruled out of this weekend’s WorldSBK round at Assen.

He plans to be back in action at the Misano test, at the end of May.

Petrucci then plans to race at the fourth round of the WSBK season at Misano on June 14-16.

A crash while riding a motocross bike, in preparation for Assen, left Petrucci with multiple injuries.

He suffered a broken jaw, a broken collarbone and shoulder blade, broken teeth, and skin lacerations.

A statement from Barni Ducati provided the update: “Following a frightening motocross accident last Thursday at the Cingoli circuit (MC), Danilo Petrucci is pushing for a swift return.

“The surgery to mend the double fracture to his jaw, with the insertion of some plates, was successful; the Terni rider will stay at “Le Torrette di Ancona Hospital” until Monday to repair his right clavicle, fractured in the same crash.

“This second procedure should expedite his recovery.

“Petrux’s aim is to be on the track not only for the Misano round (June 14-16) but already for the tests two weeks prior.”

Marco Barbabo: “The most important thing is Danilo’s well-being.

“Today, I went to Ancona to meet him in person and let him feel the team’s affection.

“I must say I found him already motivated to return. After the clavicle surgery, the recovery will start, and we’ve set a date for the end of May tests at Misano”.

Petrucci previously described his accident as “one of the scariest falls of my life”.

He added: “I'm truly disappointed about this injury. I was in great shape, felt I could achieve good results, and was training even harder. 

"I'd never had to skip a race due to a motocross accident, but I won't be at Assen. 

"With the plates they've inserted, I wouldn't even be able to put on my helmet. In agreement with the doctors, we decided to operate on the clavicle too. I want to be there for the Misano tests at the end of May.”

Nicholas Spinelli will replace him for Barni Ducati at Assen.

Spinelli said: “I am so sorry for Danilo's accident and I wish him a speedy recovery, but I am really happy with this call. 

"Racing with the guys of Superbike is a dream come true, I will try my best to do well and enjoy this experience. A big thank you to Marco Barnabo and the whole team who still believe in me after the season we had together.”