How a Non-Racing Crash changed a WSBK Rider’s View on Racing

Danilo Petrucci suffered a scary motocross accident on 11 April which ruled him out of World Superbike action, resulted in a hospital stay, and being unable to carry out simple tasks on his own.

Petrucci returned to action a few weeks later in Misano, and is now fully recovered after breaking several teeth, his jaw in two parts, his collarbone and shoulder blade. Most riders, be it professionals, track day enthusiasts or even normal road users have suffered a tumble or two in their lifetime. But not being able to eat or shower properly… no thanks! That’s not something I would ever want to endure, but that’s exactly what Petrucci had to go through.

“After the accident, I couldn’t, for example, eat or shower by myself. I really missed normal life and I understood that I’m really lucky to be healthy, fit and have this kind of life,” Petrucci told WorldSBK.com.

“I appreciate what I have more. The team owner, Marco Barnabo, was the first person after my family to join me at the hospital and he was really sad. Then, in the same week, he was able to win his first race with this team. I sent a message to him, and I said, ‘This has been our lucky week because I’m alive and you won the first race’.”

Petrucci “didn’t expect so much love”

Already a fan favourite during his time in MotoGP, Petrucci is again one of the most adored riders in World Superbike and returning from injury in Italy was always going to see Petrucci receive a lot of support given what happened to him. But the Italian was surprised at just how much support he received.

Petrucci suffered the accident in April before a miraculous recovery to compete at Misano the following month, but it wasn’t all that clear whether he would be able to complete the weekend, until the support from supporters got him over the line.

“Misano was really tough,” added Petrucci. “After Free Practice on [that] Friday, I said, ‘Look, I’ll try to do the race but I’m really not sure I’ll be able to complete it’. I found strength from all the fans. I’ve never seen so many people cheering for me. I didn’t expect so much love. I’ve never seen it in any of my races before in WorldSBK or MotoGP.

“Hundreds of people outside my box were waiting for me. On one hand, I was really happy but on the other, I got a bit of pressure because I said, ‘I can’t quit now!’. I had to do something for them. Race 2 was a nightmare with the pain but being the top Independent and seeing all the people at Parc Ferme was worth the sacrifice and the pain I felt in the previous months.

“The podium at Most [two rounds after his return], after the accident, is something I will always remember. It wasn’t an easy race. There was a big fight with Iannone at the end of the race. We shared the podium and that meant a lot for both of us but especially for me. For some days, I didn’t know if I was able to be fast again so it was like removing a stone from my shoulder. I feel more relaxed now.”