Qatar MotoGP: Alvaro Bautista breaks left femur

Alvaro Bautista suffered a devastating injury blow tonight in Qatar when he broke his left femur following a high-speed crash during tonight’s final practice session at the Losail International Circuit.

The Spaniard lost control of his factory Suzuki GSV-R machine at the fast Turn 15 left-hander and immediately appeared in serious discomfort.

It was apparent that he couldn’t get to his feet and he underwent lengthy treatment at trackside before being transferred by ambulance to the medical centre.

He was diagnosed with a break close to the top of his left femur and the injury will require a pin to stabilise it.

He was taken to the Hamad Medical Corporation in Doha for further tests, before a decision will be taken whether to operate in Qatar or for him to return to Spain.

It is understood doctors want to him to remain in the Middle East for immediate surgery.

Bautista will be replaced by John Hopkins at the next race in Jerez on April 3, with the American Suzuki’s designated injury replacement for 2011.

He was only in Qatar five days ago helping Bautista carry out promotional filming for Suzuki and MCN understands he will attempt to travel from his home in San Diego to return to return to Doha to qualify.