The Dutchman has surprised everyone by confirming his return this weekend for the Grand Prix of Finland, a race that did not seem to be in the initial plans since his injury in the GP of Teustchenthal (Germany) in mid-June.
Herlings has recovered well enough to return to the grid ahead of schedule. The KTM Red Bull rider suffered a fractured cervical vertebra in a crash while leading the first round of the Teutschenthal GP. Since then he has been out of competition, missing the double-header in Indonesia, Czech Republic and the recent Grand Prix of Lommel. A few weeks ago he announced that he would return for the next two rounds of the ADAC MX Masters German Championship at the beginning of August.
I’m doing pretty well now. Next Monday I have another check-up appointment to get permission to start motorcycle training again.” said Herlings a couple of weeks ago “In everyday life and during fitness training, I can already do everything again without restrictions, such as cycling, rowing, swimming and these things. So I hope to be back on the bike next week.”
However, Herlings and his team received the green light from the medical team ahead of schedule and, without hesitation, decided to take part in the fourteenth round this weekend in Vantaa, Finland. Herlings chances of continuing to battle for the title are almost nil, since the difference in points respect Prado’s is 279, but still, it is always interesting to have him in competition. In addition, it will be the first Grand Prix since the 2021 final in which he will coincide with Tim Gajser.
“Once I knew the problem with my neck and back was going to need time and I’d sit out races then my only focus was to heal 100% before I came near the bike again. I know the physical and the mental cost of setbacks like this and I was determined to follow the doctor’s advice. If I couldn’t have the title this year then I wanted my health. I’m still in good shape so I hope it won’t take too long to get back at the front.”
