Various reports in from Italy are indicating the factory-Yamaha nine-time MotoGP champ has broken his tib/fib in an off-road accident, which if true, spells the end of Rossi’s run at a tenth championship this year. 2017 has so far been the closest, most-thrilling championship ever in the premier class, with Rossi lately ascendant and just 26 points behind championship leader Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati) with six rounds remaining.

Surely just a bad dream? Sounds like reality. Our source inside Yamaha USA says he’s afraid the rumors are true. A release from MoviStar Yamaha says Rossi was taken to hospital for a check-up, and a full medical bulletin will be issued in due course.

Fingers crossed.

Update from Movistar Yamaha:

Movistar Yamaha MotoGP‘s Valentino Rossi sustained displaced fractures of the tibia and fibula of his right leg, following an enduro incident on Thursday evening, August 31st.

Following an enduro training accident on Thursday, August 31st, Movistar Yamaha MotoGP star Valentino Rossi was diagnosed with displaced fractures of the tibia and fibula of his right leg.

The 38-year-old Italian rider will undergo surgery as soon as possible.

A further medical bulletin will be issued later on Friday morning, Sept 1st.