Joan Mir has officially withdrawn from the 2024 San Marino MotoGP due to health complications stemming from gastroenteritis.
The decision comes after a weekend marked by fluctuating health conditions, which ultimately prevented the Repsol Honda rider from participating at the MotoGP weekend at Misano.
Mir’s health issues began earlier in the weekend as he experienced symptoms of gastroenteritis that forced him to miss the Friday sessions.
Initially, there were signs of improvement with Mir reportedly feeling better on Saturday afternoon. He even managed to leave his motorhome for a walk and had a meal, which indicated a positive turn in his condition.
However, the brief improvement was short-lived. By Saturday morning, Mir’s health took a turn for the worse, leading to further complications that included vomiting and a significant drop in stamina according to a statement from HRC (Honda Racing Corporation).
Medical staff led by Dr. Charte recommended for the 27-year-old rider to withdraw from the San Marino MotoGP to prioritize his health.
The official statement read: “Under the instruction of Medical Staff, led by Dr. Charte, Mir will withdraw from the SanMarino MotoGP. His target is to be back on track for the Monday Test.”
Joan Mir’s absence from the San Marino GP is a major blow to the Repsol Honda team, particularly given his status as the 2020 MotoGP World Champion. Since joining the team last season, he has been a vital part of the team’s development efforts, especially as they continue to grapple with the performance issues of the Honda RC213V.
Despite the challenges faced by the team, Honda has expressed confidence in Mir’s abilities and contributions. In June, he secured a two-year contract extension with the team, which will keep him until the end of the 2026 season.
The team is yet to confirm his replacement for the weekend as test rider Stefan Bradl, who is the first-choice substitute in such situations is already running as a wild-card.