American Ryan Villopoto has withdrawn from the Sydney and Brisbane Monster Energy Super X events due to length of recovery time from this year’s horrific leg injuries.

His U.S. management confirmed today following a meeting with his race team, doctors and personal trainer that though his broken tibia and fibula are fully healed his lack of conditioning means he is not fit to race in the two Australian events on 27 November and 4 December respectively.

“I am really disappointed that I can no longer come to Australia to race in front of all of the Supercross fans there and I apologise to any I have let down,” said Villopoto. “If I was fit to race I would be there in a heartbeat because I was genuinely so excited about checking out the country and competing there.”

Managing director of Global Action Sports Michael Porra said the news highlighted is an unfortunate aspect of the tough sport of Supercross, which takes such a physical toll on riders, but emphasised that Sydney and Brisbane fans are in for a real treat this year with the confirmation of more big name riders completing a lineup, which boasts the most depth in international talent that Australia has ever seen.

“We know that some fans will be disappointed by this news, but we have worked around the clock to secure a huge lineup of international riders to ensure fans at the Sydney and Brisbane Super X events are treated to the best and most competitive racing ever seen in Australia,” said Porra.

International riders now confirmed to compete in the two rounds are New Zealander Ben Townley and American Ivan Tedesco.

They will compete against Australia’s best including Cougar Bourbon Thor Honda’s Dan Reardon, CDR Rockstar Yamaha’s Jay Marmont, Rockstar Motul Suzuki twins Matt and Jake Moss as well as young gun JDR Motorex KTM’s Tye Simmonds.

Press from Global Action Sports continues to state that Reed will be in attendance, however the defending dual champion has stated multiple times on the record that he won’t be contesting any further rounds this season. Watch this space…