Injured Jorge Lorenzo withdraws from MotoGP's Japanese Grand Prix

Still suffering from the injuries he sustained at the previous event in Thailand, Lorenzo told media on Thursday that he was still uncertain of being able to race despite being passed fit.

He attempted to participate in first practice on Friday morning at Motegi, but completed only two laps - an out-lap and an in-lap - at pedestrian speed before returning to the pits and removing his helmet.

Confirmation that Lorenzo will take no further part in the weekend came before the end of the session.

Lorenzo had damaged his right ankle and left wrist in a practice accident at Buriram (pictured above), and had also sustained foot injuries in his first corner collision with Marc Marquez at last month's Aragon race.