John McPhee out of Indonesia Moto3 round after fracturing vertebrae

Max Biaggi Husqvarna rider John McPhee is forced out of this weekend's Indonesia Moto3 event after sustaining two fractured vertebrae in a training accident

John McPhee

John McPhee’s hopes of securing an elusive Moto3 World Championship title has received a blow after he sustained two fractured vertebrae during training, forcing him to miss this weekend’s second round in Indonesia.

The Scotsman is the most experienced rider in the entry-level GP class having made his debut in 2010 and is competing in his final season of Moto3 before he exceeds the age cap beyond 2022.

Considered one of the favourites for the title having moved from Petronas Sprinta to the Max Biaggi Racing Husqvarna team, McPhee finished fifth during the opening round in Qatar, but will be out of this weekend’s Mandalika event after a fall during training.

“With great regret, we announce that our rider John McPhee will not take part in the Indonesian Grand Prix.

“Unfortunately John during an accident in a training session, suffered a fracture of two vertebrae. Fortunately the fracture is stable and there is no need for surgery. From tomorrow John will begin rehabilitation, with the intention of returning for the Argentine Grand Prix, which will be held on April 3.

“In his long career, John never missed a grand prix for a training injury.”

McPhee - who won’t be replaced for the event - made his GP debut in 2010 when the class was known as 125GP, sharing the grid with the likes of Marc Marquez, Pol Espargaro and Bradley Smith. He has achieved three Moto3 wins during his career.