Stiggy Honda's John Hopkins will not take part in any more World Superbike rounds this year as the Anglo-American has a small bruise on the back of his brain which doctors say needs to be kept under observation.

The bruise had been bleeding but that has now stopped. However, Dr Ting has recommended that Hopkins doesn't ride and will go back for a check-up in six weeks, which rules him out of the rest of the season. The team will not be replacing him for the final three rounds.
"I travelled back to the United States on Monday and spent Tuesday undergoing MRI scans on my head, my left shoulder, right wrist and my hip. My doctor [Dr. Ting] reviewed the scans and found a big bruise and bleeding on the brain," said Hopkins.

"I had to see a Neurologist to determine the severity of the condition and he has confirmed the bruise on the brain, but no further bleeding. My shoulder has tendon and ligament damage which require surgery, as well as my wrist.

"For the next six to eight weeks I have been instructed to rest and then I will need another scan to see if the bruising in my head has gone. These weeks should be enough for my body to get back to normal, get the bones back in order and get my stamina, strength and overall fitness back up to par, which in return should raise my confidence and hunger to win!

"All the injuries I sustained over the past year and a half have made it difficult for me to get into a constant training regime, and have left me with a mental disadvantage going into recent races. I wish my team all success for the remaining three rounds."

Click here for a video update from Hopper