Promising young Italian Ferruccio Zanchi has been sidelined from the FIM Motocross World Championship after receiving confirmation of a knee injury sustained during free practice at the MXGP of Germany.
Zanchi initially withdrew from the Teutschenthal round last weekend after a crash in practice, with his Honda HRC team awaiting further medical evaluations. Although he remained hopeful, the news following detailed check-ups has confirmed a significant injury, forcing him to also sit out the recent MXGP of Latvia and face an extended period away from competition.
“This wasn’t the news I hoped for when I visited the doctor, but I thought it might be the issue,” Zanchi said. “We now have a long road to recovery, which starts with just resting it as much as possible. I feel pretty disappointed to leave the series like this because I really thought I could come good in the second half of the championship, but now I just need to focus on getting healthy. Thanks to all the team and my friends and family for all their support, I really appreciate it.”
Doctors have advised full rest and no physical activity at this stage, with another evaluation scheduled in a month to assess progress and determine the best course of action for recovery.
The news comes as a blow to Zanchi’s MX2 season, particularly after a strong early showing that included a moto win and overall podium at the Spanish round in Cozar.
Marcus Pereira de Freitas, HRC General Manager – MXGP, expressed sympathy for the rider and team: “Unfortunately, it seems like Ferruccio won’t be joining us for a while after his news from the doctors has ruled him out. We’ll work out a plan after his next appointment, but it is a real shame for him and for the whole of Honda HRC.”
While it’s a frustrating pause in momentum, Zanchi remains committed to his recovery and will continue to receive full support from his team as he focuses on a return to form.
