A DRAMATIC crash at Barcelona's Montmeló circuit has left MotoGP rider Tito Rabat in hospital and his bike destroyed by fire.
The Real Avintia Racing rider lost control of his bike on a bend during a Michelin tyre test run and was flung clear of his vehicle, landing in one of the track's emergency exits.
His bike was seen flying through the air in flames, having caught light due to the impact of the smash.
Rabat, who was born in and lives in Barcelona, was rushed to the Quirón Dexeus hospital in his home city.
Despite the horrific nature of his accident and the height and speed from which he hit the tarmac, Tito got up and walked away from the scene unaided.
His team has revealed that initial tests at the hospital appear to show he has not broken any bones, but he is due to undergo an MRI scan on his left elbow to check for damage to the ligaments.
Given the circumstances, it seems Rabat has been extremely lucky, and it is possible he may not even have to miss any forthcoming races this season.
Photograph: Video still by Valentí Saumell on Twitter (@valentisaumell)
