Rossi in no hurry to return

Bengaluru, September 8: MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi, who is recovering from a freak injury which he sustained during training has not set any timeframe for his return, though he nurtures slim hopes to be fit in time for the Motegi Grand Prix in Japan on October 15.

The 38-year-old who is ruled out of Sunday's (September 10) home Grand Prix in Misano was initially expected to compete in Aragon MotoGP on September 24.

But with doctors advising him at least 30-40 days rest, and his recovery taking more time than expected, it looks as though Motegi would see his return to the grid, though he took a philosophical view of the things.

"I learn from the other time that in this phase, you have to live day by day. A lot depends on how my leg is. In my head, I was thinking Motegi, but it's hard to make predictions. We need to see how my leg is, how it reacts, whether we can push it a little, move it, whether it swells, we need to see how I am," Rossi told MotoGP.com.

'The Doctor', as he is fondly known among his peers, was involved in an enduro accident during training close to his hometown' Tavullia on August 31.

He was hospitalised immediately and later underwent a surgery on the displaced fractures of the tibia and fibula of his right leg.

Incidentally, it was the same leg the Italian broke in 2010, in a practice session at Mugello, ahead of his home MotoGP.

While regretting that he would not able to compete at his home Grand Prix on Sunday, Rossi was looking at the larger picture instead.

"It's a big pity that I can't be at my home GP. For sure, I was really looking forward to the round in Misano, because riding in front of the fans there is something very special, but I have to treat the injury with care," he added.

Rossi fans and aficionados took to Twitter to reveal how much they missed him.

Yamaha has ruled out a replacement for Rossi at Misano and that means team-mate Maverick Vinales will be their sole rider on the grid. While thanking the team for the support, Rossi also expressed his desire to be back on the grid soon in a message posted on the Yamaha website.

"I know the team is supporting me during the rehabilitation process. Fortunately I'm fine, I'm not too bad and I've already managed to start some light physiotherapy. The recovery time isn't short, but I will do everything I can to get back on track as soon as possible. I have to say thanks to everyone for the affection you have shown me during these days. See you soon!"