News 10 Nov 2017

Monster Yamaha Tech3's Folger diagnosed with Gilbert Syndrome

Van der Mark to contest final round of MotoGP at Valencia.

Source: Supplied.

After being sidelined for the last three rounds, Jonas Folger’s mystery illness has finally being diagnosed, with a series of tests confirming he has a strain of Gilbert Syndrome.

Gilbert Syndrome is where the liver is unable to process toxins effectively, which has been an underlying condition that has plagued Jonas for several years but had never been diagnosed properly.

The German rider expressed his relief to have a clear understanding of his situation, and is adamant he’ll be back on the MotoGP circuit stronger than ever.

“It’s a huge relief that we now have a clear understanding of the situation and how to move forward,” said Jonas. “The past six weeks have been very difficult for me, not knowing what’s happening or why my body shut down completely. I’ve been living with elements of this since 2011 but I’ve always been able to overcome it and we never really knew what it was.

“It’s unfortunate that it took such a serious episode to finally diagnose the situation but I’m just thankful we now have some answers. I miss my team and all my friends in the paddock. I’ve received a lot of support from everyone on social media, not just fans but my competitors also and this means a lot to me.

“I’d like to thank everyone at Monster Yamaha Tech3 and all my sponsors for their belief in me, and messages of support. I will be back and stronger than ever, fighting at the top of MotoGP.”

With Jonas sidelined for this weekend’s final round of the MotoGP World Championship in Valencia, Michael van der Mark has been called in again, marking his second appearance with the outfit after fulfilling the position at the Malaysian grand prix.

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