Ai Ogura has been forced to withdraw from the 2024 Austrian GP due to a hand fracture sustained during a practice session crash.
The incident happened during the second practice session at the Red Bull Ring where Ogura suffered a highside that led to him losing control of his Boscoscuro motorcycle before crashing at Turn 2 just minutes before the session concluded.
Despite managing to return to the pits on his own, the Japanese sensation was subsequently transported to the medical center for evaluation. There, medical staff diagnosed him with a fracture in his right hand, which has rendered him unfit to compete at the Austrian GP.
Prior to the incident, Ogura had been enjoying a stellar weekend, having topped both practice sessions on Friday. His fastest lap of 1:33.943 placed him firmly at the front of the grid, showcasing his potential to contend for victory in the race.
However, the crash has now overshadowed his promising start, forcing him to concede valuable championship points to his teammate, Sergio Garcia, who is currently leading the standings.
Ogura’s absence from the Austrian GP is particularly significant in the context of the Moto2 championship. With only a few races left in the season, every point counts, and Ogura’s inability to compete could have a lasting impact on his title aspirations.
His teammate, Garcia, who is positioned to capitalize on Ogura’s misfortune, could extend his lead in the championship standings significantly if he performs well in the race.
Now Ogura’s immediate focus will be on recovery; while the team has not provided a detailed timeline for his return, but he will have approximately two weeks to recuperate before the next Grand Prix in Aragon, scheduled for the end of August.
This timeframe is critical, as Ogura aims to return to full fitness and continue his competitive streak in Moto2 before making the leap to MotoGP in 2025 after recently signing a two-year contract with Trackhouse Aprilia.
