Following an extended recovery from injury in her native New Zealand, Courtney Duncan will return to Europe to finish out the remainder of the 2016 FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship schedule.

The former red plate holder suffered injuries to both her wrist and ankle, forcing her out of the France and Lombardia events, ruling her out of the championship chase for 2016.

“I’m not worried about where I finish up in the championship now, that’s been ruined for me,” said Duncan. “It’s all about setting myself up for next season.”

Yet to return to riding, the Altherm JCR Yamaha Racing Team rider, managed by former Australian motocross champion Josh Coppins, believes her extensive off bike training should ensure she is prepared to return to racing at the 7 August grand prix of Switzerland.

“I can’t wait to get back on the bike again,” she added. “My fitness is pretty good because I’ve been in the gym and cycling a lot over the past six weeks. I’ve got two and a half weeks before the GP in Switzerland, but I should be all good to go.”

Although ready to return to riding, Coppins admits Duncan should expect pain initially due to the surgery procedure and lack of movement over the past six two months.

“Courtney had a pin inserted in her thumb to rejoin the ligament and was in a brace for six weeks,” Coppins explained. “She hasn’t had any physio, it’s been just rest and stay in the brace, so we expect some pain when she begins riding.”

Duncan now sits eighth overall in the 2016 FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship standings.