WATCH: Aleix Espargaro narrowly escapes deadly crash in Tissot Sprint, set to miss remaining of Dutch GP

MotoGP superstar Aleix Espargaro of Aprilia Racing has decided to withdraw from the remainder of the Dutch Grand Prix. He took this decision to expedite his recovery following a significant crash during the Tissot Sprint. Despite being declared fit to participate in Sunday's warm-up, Espargaro opted to prioritize his health after fracturing the fifth metacarpal in his right hand.

The injury occurred during a high-speed incident on the final lap of Saturday's Sprint race, where Aleix Espargaro was holding a commendable sixth place. This was the second major accident of his weekend, following a heavy fall on his back at the final chicane during Friday's session.

Here is the video:

That was a fast one 😱



A massive last-lap blow for @AleixEspargaro, who thankfully got back up 💥#DutchGP 🇳🇱 pic.twitter.com/DpMmZ5desf

— MotoGP™🏁 (@MotoGP) June 29, 2024

Medical evaluations on Saturday night confirmed the fracture, yet Espargaro was initially cleared to take part in Sunday's warm-up session. However, subsequent assessments revealed that the pain was too intense for him to continue. According to Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola, Espargaro was in such severe discomfort that he struggled to even put on his glove.

Aprilia Racing faces double trouble

The decision to withdraw is particularly significant as Espargaro is set to retire from MotoGP at the end of this season. He was slated to start from fourth on the grid, benefiting from a penalty given to title leader Jorge Martin. Unfortunately, Espargaro's withdrawal marks the second Aprilia rider to be ruled out of the race, following Lorenzo Savadori's back fractures sustained during the Sprint.

Espargaro's focus now shifts to the upcoming German MotoGP at Sachsenring, starting on Friday. This period will allow him some crucial recovery time, with the hope that he will be in better condition to compete.