Superbike Racer Gets A Face Full Of Flames In Huge Crash

We’ve said time and time again that motorbike riders are a different breed. We’re pretty sure you don’t need any more proof by now, but let us give you some anyway.

What we’re talking about isn’t this shocking high-side crash suffered by Tom Sykes at the World Superbike last weekend in Portugal - which saw the British rider’s bike burst into flames during a practice session - rather what he said in the aftermath.

Speaking to Eurosport, the Kawasaki rider thanked medical staff for re-setting his broken finger, before adding that he wished he hadn’t taken such strong painkillers, which stopped him riding for the remainder of the weekend. That’s competitive spirit for you!

“I just wish we could have done a localised injection and tried to ride because, other than that, I’m feeling good,” he said, adding, “Obviously now, because of the medication they used, I’m not allowed to ride. So obviously I’m really disappointed with that, but I’ll move things forward tomorrow and go and have an operation.”

Whether or not riding would have been possible without the painkillers, we’re not sure. Sykes shared an update on Instagram today mentioning the finger had a “few breaks” and that fixing it required “metal work,” although from the sounds of it, he’s keen to get back on two wheels in time for the next two rounds at Magny Cours.

Sykes, we salute you.