Sachsenring MotoGP: Dani Pedrosa in doubt for Laguna Seca

Dani Pedrosa is a major doubt for next weekend’s American GP at Laguna Seca after he endured a disaster in Germany this afternoon.

Not only did a massive first corner crash on lap six saw him surrender his MotoGP world championship points lead, but hand and ankle injuries mean he could be forced out of the Laguna clash.

Pedrosa has a fractured index finger on his left hand and serious tendon damage in two other fingers, while he also has a suspected broken right ankle. He was due to fly out of Germany for immediate treatment in Barcelona with renowned surgeon Dr Xavier Mir.

If he does miss this weekend’s 32-lap clash, the factory Honda rider faces a mountain to climb to win his first premier class world title. He’s already 16-points behind Rossi and only four clear of a rampant Casey Stoner.

Pedrosa crashed out on lap six as he led the 30-lap race by a massive seven seconds following a succession of fast laps.

But as he braked for turn one he lost control, and after several rolls through the gravel he hit the trackside air fence headfirst.

“It was a little strange. I had only just touched the brake and I crashed. It was a real pity because I’d got a great start and was going well. I had a good feeling. The front felt perfect, the rear was sliding just a little, but the general feeling was good considering the track conditions. It is a real pity”, said the triple world champion.