Capirossi fell after clipping the rear wheel of Toni Elias as the pair fought for position in the latter stages of the Aragon race and damaged the same shoulder that he injured in a fall at Assen back in June.
Following discussions with MotoGP's medical team, Capirossi has elected to sit out the Japanese race in order to ensure his fitness for the remainder of the season, when he will then retire from the sport.
“I wanted to race in Japan, one of my favourite tracks where I have achieved many good results and much satisfaction, but the doctors were more than clear,” the Pramac Ducati rider said. “After an initial consultation in Monaco, where it was recommended I immediately undergo surgery, which would have meant three months out and the end of my career, I went to Imola to see Dr. Costa. He is used to seeing other riders in these conditions, and I thought he might have other ideas.
“Unfortunately, he was also quite hard about it, and I was strongly advised not to take part in the Japanese race. My shoulder hurts, and it will take at least two weeks of full rest plus a week of rehabilitation. I regret this very much, but I think this is the best choice for ending my season, and my career, in the best way possible for the last three races in Australia, Malaysia and Valencia.”
Doctor Claudio Costa, MotoGP's medical delegate, insisted that missing the Motegi race was the best option for Capirossi to ensure his fitness for the later races this year.
“I saw Loris' fall, which was spectacular and of course very dangerous,” he said. “He again suffered a dislocation of the right clavicle, which he had already dislocated in the Netherlands Grand Prix. Now if he were to have another similar accident, with the ligaments that have just healed and are therefore no longer totally healthy, it could be dangerous and not worth the risk.
“Strong pressure would be enough to damage his shoulder even more and thus obligate Loris to surgery and consequently the end of his career. My suggestion is that, although it is difficult, he should take a break and miss the race in Japan in order to keep the shoulder protected for two weeks by immobilising it. After that, a week of therapy in the water and he can return to the track for the last three races.”
