Austria have been forced to pull out of this years Motocross des Nations event which heads to Ernee this weekend. The riders selected to represent Austria were; Marcel Stauffer (MX2) Johannes Klein (Open) and Michael Kratzer (MXGP).
However, two of the riders – Klein and Kratzer have been hit with injuries and not able to race at the prestigious event meaning Austria have been forced to pull out. It is a shame for Marcel Stauffer who could have got the best results for the team in the MX2 class.
Johannes Klein posted the following update on social media:
“Update: I tore my cruciate ligament, tore my collateral ligament and damaged other areas of my knee 6 days ago. We did everything possible to represent Team Austria at the Nations Cross. I decided not to take part in the ÖM at the weekend because it would have slowed down my healing process. I’ve managed to get back to riding motocross today without any pain and at a good pace. I wouldn’t have any concerns about taking part in an ÖM race at the weekend and getting a good result, but for the MXoN I have to be in absolute top shape to be able to keep up. The coming weekend I couldn’t make the decision on my own whether to take part, because others are also affected by my decision, and it makes a difference whether I don’t live up to my own expectations or whether I disappoint my teammates in the process. It’s a shame that it happened like this, But now I can focus entirely on getting 100% fit again. I would also like to thank O Neal Racing and Moto Styles for providing me with what should have been an appropriate look for the Nations. I would also like to thank my family and friends who have always supported my decisions during this time”.
Image: Christina Wolz Sportfotografie
