Stoner ...
Stoner's 2011 world championship reign is almost at an end;
Stoner's 2012 world championship challenge has failed (it is now impossible for him to win the title):
Stoner's motivation is purely to win races - something that he recognises to be impossible given his physical condition;
Stoner's injury is so severe that expert medical advice is 6-9 months rest;
Stoner's injury is so severe that to crash again risks lasting, permanent damage;
Stoner's injury is such that he is unable to lever himself forward over the front of the bike with his legs to prevent wheelies under acceleration - forcing him to pull on the bars (rather than use his legs) to control the bike;
Stoners injury is such that he is forced to exert even greater, far more tiring stress on his arms and upper-body;
Stoner's injury is so severe that, by his own admission, a further 4-6 weeks rest will not see a measurable improvement in his condition;
Stoner doesn't believe in 'team-orders' - but isn't in a position to comply anyway;
Stoner (by his own admission) doesn't even like the sport anymore;
Stoner has already signalled his intention to retire at the end of the season.
Taking all this into account, then perhaps SuperMario and Shawn are right to question: "Why is Stoner still 'racing'?"
Pressure from Honda?
