More shoulder surgery for Nicky Hayden

Ducati and Valentino Rossi might be enjoying better fortunes in 2012 after a successful three-day test in Malaysia last week, though the same can’t be said for luckless American Nicky Hayden.

The flat-track crash he experienced on December 27 is proving to be a very costly and painful one, with Ducati confirming late Sunday night that the 2006 world champion requires immediate further surgery on the left shoulder blade he broke last month.

Hayden laboured through last week’s Sepang test in considerable discomfort, with the recovering shoulder blade restricting his ability to change direction and control the new Ducati GP12 under hard acceleration.

Further checks in Fremont, California revealed damage to cartilage in the 30-year-old’s shoulder, as well as to muscles in his back.

The outcome will mean additional surgery to be carried out today (Monday), with quotes from Hayden in Ducati’s press statement avoiding giving any indication on when he will be back on track.

He had initially intended to fly back to Europe for a three-day test at Jerez that starts on February 20 to make up for lost track time in Sepang.

Hayden said: “Of course another operation before the season is never a good thing, but I’m actually happy that I tried to ride at Malaysia, because it helped me to discover that the problem with the shoulder was bigger than we thought.

“After seeing the scans, it was clear why I couldn’t ride well. Setbacks are a part of life and a part of MotoGP, so we’ll deal with it and do everything possible to get back on the bike in good condition as soon as possible.

“Ducati and the team are putting maximum effort into this championship, and that helps me to keep my spirits high and to be confident heading into the season.”