Defending MX2 World Champion Jorge Prado will miss the second round of the 2019 FIM Motocross World Championship this weekend at Matterley Basin, KTM announced today.

Prado won both motos at the season-opener in Argentina but sustained a left shoulder injury while practicing two weeks ago. Prado was hoping to race this weekend but the shoulder continued to cause problems. A medical examination by Dr. Claes in Belgium revealed a hematoma under the left shoulder blade.

The injury will require rest and Prado will undergo a check-up on March 26. At that point, it will be determined if he can race round three at Valkenswaard.

“After such a strong start to the season for the team and Jorge it is disappointing for everyone that he and Jeffrey are now missing Matterley Basin and the first European round of 2019,” said Red Bull KTM team manager Claudio De Carli. “Unfortunately this is part of the sport but, fortunately, it could be worse and we hope Jorge will be back on the bike very quickly. We’re in good shape and we are confident, and we believe this will not be such a big setback for us in what is a long season.”