Arnaud Tonus injury – his return to racing unknown following surgery

Arnaud Tonus will miss the start of the FIM Motocross World Championship as he recovers from surgery following a crash at the International in France at LaCapelle Marival.

His crash at the Masters of Motocross International on February 18 happened during Timed Practice – he never made it to the motos. Following medical attention at the circuit, he was transported to Switzerland where a specialist at the Hirslanden Hospital in Geneva assessed his shoulder.

Tonus underwent surgery to reconstruct the shoulder on Tuesday, February 20 and he will remain in Switzerland for the initial part of his rehabilitation.

His medical team has advised the Swiss native to rest for the first few weeks before starting an intensive physiotherapy program, which will aim to have him back on the bike in the shortest amount of time possible.

Wilvo Yamaha Official MXGP said his main focus is to take his time and to make a full and strong recovery. Tonus’ return date to racing is currently unknown.

“It’s really disappointing to start the season with a big injury like this,” said Tonus via a press release. “I did a lot of work in the winter, in the gym and with my diet, to be 100 per cent ready for this season, and I felt great on the bike.

“Now, I need to change my goals and recover in the best way possible. I am confident with the doctors and people I have around me here in Geneva, and I am sure that when I come back, I will be strong and ready to show what I can do.”

Wilvo Yamaha Official MXGP Team Owner, Louis Vosters, said: “The operation went really well, they have fixed his shoulder 100 per cent, so that’s really positive. The doctors in Switzerland are really professional, they’re world-class, and so I have confidence in their treatment for Arnaud.

“I spoke to Arnaud yesterday and he was positive about the way the doctors in Switzerland are working. That is really good. Now it’s time to move forward. I know it won’t be an easy road and it will take some time. It’s of course really disappointing for him and for us at Wilvo Yamaha MXGP, but we understand that this is part of the sport and we will support Arnaud all the way.”