NW200: Davey Todd 'disappointed' over race exclusion and 'expected to go through full medical examination'

The 8TEN Racing BMW rider was injured in a crash at the Daytona 200 in the USA in March, suffering a broken left femur and right tibia, foot and nose in the incident.

After undergoing surgery in the US, Todd took part in a six-week recovery programme at the elite Formula Medicine facility in Italy.

The 30-year-old completed a test on Thursday at the Ricardo Tormo circuit at Valencia in Spain and felt comfortable on the bike.

However, Todd was ruled out of the North West this week following a decision by the Chief Medical Officer on Tuesday.

In an official statement, the nine-time NW200 winner said: “I’m obviously disappointed to have been deemed unfit to ride at the NW200, especially after the extensive rehab and training I’ve been going through.

“I had expected to go through a full medical examination to properly assess things, but the decision was made without that and ultimately came down to a straightforward “no.”

“That said, while it’s frustrating in the moment, I know it’s about looking at the bigger picture. I’ll take the time to continue my recovery, rehab, training and come back stronger.

“Thanks to everyone for the support—it really does mean a lot, and I’m already focused on getting back out there as soon as I can.”

Todd’s 8TEN Racing BMW team-mate Peter Hickman will spearhead the team’s challenge.

Hickman, a four-time winner at the event in the Superstock and Supertwin classes, said he “couldn’t comment” on the decision to exclude Todd.

“The team is really positive still; we know where we are at and where the bikes are right now,” he said.

“I can't comment on what has happened with Davey, but we are just going to concentrate on myself for this week.

“Davey is here, he is in a good place, and we have to look forward. That is all you can do, never look backwards and look forward.”