It has been confirmed that Monster Yamaha Tech3 Team rider Jonas Folger will be forced to sit out this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix and return immediately to his native Germany for medical checks.
The Clinica Mobile medical staff examined Folger and recommended that he undertake further tests in Munich to check for a return of the Epstein Barr virus he has suffered with in the past.
This also means that his participation in the next two rounds is also thrown into doubt..
"I came to Japan and was motivated for these three flyaway races, but I've been feeling really weak since the Misano and Aragon rounds,โ he explained. โOn arrival here, I have been struggling with my energy levels, even leaving the hotel room was impossible for me, and unfortunately, I had to miss some Yamaha events, which I'm very sorry for.โ
โI met with Hervรฉ on Wednesday night and we agreed to go for a check with the doctors. I met with Dr Charte and the Clinica Mobile team and they have advised me to return to Germany right away for a series of blood tests.โ
โI've had Epstein Barr virus in the past and it's a possibility that this has flared up again and resurfaced, but we can't be sure until I've had these tests in Munich. I'm really sorry for my whole team and Yamaha at their home race and would like to thank them for all their support. Also sorry to my personal sponsors, I appreciate them all standing by me at this difficult time. Now we must remain positive and aim to come back stronger."
