Image: Supplied.

CFMoto rider Joel Kelso sustained a broken ankle from that ‘freak’ post-race Moto3 collision at the Portuguese Grand Prix, marking a disappointing blow for the Australian following a promising weekend.

Finishing a strong P9 and completing the bout 1.2s from race-winner Daniel Holgado, Kelso pulled a tear-off after the finish line and collided with the number 96 who slowed to celebrate.

As a result, Kelso was thrown from his machine before a crushing landing that broke his ankle, declaring him unfit. It is understood he is undergoing further scans on his other leg.

“I’m gutted,” said Kelso. “A freak accident after the chequered flag has left me with one broken leg and the other getting further scans shortly. It’s definitely not the fairytale ending we wanted, especially with the race I had, leading my first full lap in the world championship and managing a top-ten finish.”

Prior to the incident, Kelso impressed to qualify a career-best third for the opening round of the 2023 Moto3 World Championship, leading throughout the 19-lap encounter to ultimately bank seven points to commence his campaign.