Bennetts Suzuki’s Ryuichi Kiyonari has broken his left clavicle (collarbone) after a crash at Graham Hill Bend during the second MCE British Superbike free practice session at the Brands Hatch Indy circuit, and it is a case of déjà vu for the triple-champ.
Back in 2014 whilst fighting for the title, Kiyo crashed at that corner and broke his collarbone during FP3, putting an end to his championship ambitions, and in a repeat of two seasons ago it happened again during a free practice session.
The rider is now hoping to be back for the next round at Knockhill, as the break was ‘clean’ on the left side of his collarbone. The only difference in the crash was that this time it happened as he was entering the corner, not as he was exiting, like he did back in 2014.
Before the crash this afternoon in dry conditions Kiyo was the fastest rider out on track with a 45.733 lap, but after the incident slipped down to fourth quickest overall.
“This time the crash was on the entry of the corner, and I just want to say I am sorry. When I crashed I felt I had broken the collarbone, but sure no problem [for Knockhill],” said Kiyonari at the track.
More on this story when we get it.