Rapid Ducati's Michael Rutter has been ruled out of the British Superbike Championship races at Donington Park this weekend, the legacy of the rib injuries sustained at Cadwell Park two weeks ago.

The Midlander was looking good in second before being controversially taken out by Josh Brookes at the Hall Bends section. Subsequently, Rutter missed out on the Title Showdown and has opted out of this weekend's meeting and decided to return only when he is fully fit.

"Rib injuries are some of the worst you can have and this one has been no exception, I knew before free practice on Friday that I wouldn't be right so there was no point even trying to go out," said Rutter, speaking to bikesportnews.com this afternoon.

"I've been struggling since Cadwell and even though it's the back ribs, rather than the front (which are worse than ever!), it's been hard just sleeping and breathing - to be fair, it's been hard going doing a lot of things, so many of your movements impact on your ribs. If I'd have tried to race this weekend. I'd have done myself more harm than good and probably put myself out for the rest of the season so I'll concentrate on getting back for Silverstone where I should be back to 100 per cent full fitness."