There has been plenty of rumours over the last week or so regarding Lucas Coenen having a practice crash. It has now been confirmed by Infront Moto Racing that the young Belgian is heading to Argentina injured in what will be his MXGP World Championship debut.
“A late practice crash for the teenage Belgian (Lucas Coenen) has seen him come to Argentina hoping that he has completely recovered. The winner of more MX2 GPs than anybody last season could surely be a threat to become the first ever teenage MXGP Champion in the current format, but the question of his current condition might only be answered in Saturday’s Time Practice or Qualifying Race”, Infront Moto Racing stated in their preview article for the season opener.Â
We can confirm we heard the news last week from reliable sources that Coenen had a big crash whilst preparing for his MXGP debut season. Initially the rumours were that the young Belgian had suffered two broken arms but it would obviously be impossible to even try and race the MXGP opening round if that was the case.
KTM have decided against reporting the injury until now – we contacted the Coenen camp and de Carli Racing team regarding the rumour but radio silence. They have been keen to keep the injury quiet but word has got out – thanks to Infront Moto Racing for confirming the news.
Infront Moto Racing haven’t been specific with the injury but we understand that Coenen has wrist(s) damage but is determined to go to the first round to try racing. Whether or not he can survive a whole MXGP weekend of racing remains to be seen – fingers crossed he can!
It is certainly not the ideal start to the season that Coenen would have wanted but hopefully he can get through his first challenge of the year this weekend, pick up important championship points and then recover as soon as possible. There’s no doubt that at 100% the exciting young Belgian can be a front runner in the MXGP World Championship.
Meanwhile Sacha Coenen heads to Argentina without any such problems and will hope to run at the very front of the MX2 World Championship.
