Spaniard Augusto Fernandez was ruled out of the Argentine and possibly the next race as well after breaking bones in his left wrist in a spectacular free practice crash right in front of the pits.
The Pons HP40 Kalex rider actually sustained the injury before he hit the ground, after fighting to retain control as the bike developed an increasingly severe tank-slapper out of the final corner.
Finally he was flung up from the seat, throwing his weight onto his left hand still clutching the handlebar.
He landed heavily and was stretchered off, but while the airbags and safety equipment prevented further injury, the damage was already done.
By Michael Scott
Photos GnG
