Johnny Garness, considered one of the UK's brightest motorcycle racing hopes for the future, has suffered a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain in an accident during testing in Estoril.
The 14-year old was involved in an accident on the final day of testing at the Portuguese venue when he suffered a high-side and was struck by a close-following rival.
Taken to the medical centre, Garness has since been transferred to a hospital in Lisbon, where he is being monitored closely.
"Unfortunately Johnny was involved in an incident during the final day of testing in Estoril on Tuesday," read a statement on the VisionTrack Racing Facebook page.
"On a fast lap, Johnny had a high side crash and was struck by another rider whilst on the ground.
"Johnny was immediately treated at the circuit and transferred to a nearby hospital in Lisbon. Initial scans revealed a fractured skull and bleeding on his brain.
"Johnny is being continually monitored, with surgeons confident he shouldn’t require surgery. With luck and time Johnny should make a full recovery. We would ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this tough time."
Garness is the defending British Talent Cup Champion in a dominant campaign that yielded 12 victories from 18 races and is being champion by Michael Laverty's VisionTrack Racing Academy, which currently has a team in the Moto3 World Championship.
