Complications with a wrist injury will sideline Australian Mitch Evans for the season-opening round of the 2021 MXGP World Championship in Russia this weekend.

The Honda HRC rider initially suffered the injury at the Spanish grand prix last year, which saw him take five months off the bike after his broken wrist was discovered to be far worse than first thought.

The Queenslander, who returned to riding in late March, indicated he doesn’t yet feel confident in his wrist to take on the opening round of the world championship, while a timeline on his return is yet to be determined.

“Obviously, I am really disappointed to have to miss Russia and the start of this season,” Evans commented. “I have tried my hardest to be ready but we just aren’t in a position where I feel confident I can give it my best shot and perform at the level that I expect from myself.

“Everyone at Team HRC has shown their support during this difficult time and it is now up to me to make sure that I am back ready to compete in the shortest timeframe possible. A big thanks to my team and all my fans around the world, and hopefully I’ll be able to see you at a racetrack soon.”

Just three weeks separate rounds one and two of the MXGP World Championship, with the British grand prix due to take place on 27 June.