Accident and consequences
During the third qualifying session for the Tourist Trophy, Peter Hickman crashed at high speed on his Superstock machine in the Kerrowmoar section. After receiving initial treatment at the side of the track, he was taken by rescue helicopter to Nobles Hospital. The injuries sustained by the 38-year-old BMW rider proved to be serious: in addition to a broken left collarbone and left shoulder blade, three ribs and four vertebrae were also damaged. Hickman is a 14-time TT winner, but this crash caused him to lose consciousness for the first time in his career.
Hickman appeared in the paddock during race week and supported his 8TENRacing team from a wheelchair. Particularly remarkable: despite his own injuries, he cheered on his teammate Davey Todd.
Technical cause of the crash
A comprehensive technical investigation revealed that a broken exhaust bracket was responsible for the accident. This caused the hot tailpipe to press against the rear wheel, which ultimately led to the tire bursting.
Health status: Broken bones are healing – but severe nerve damage
According to Hickman, the broken bones are healing well, but his return to the racetrack is currently not foreseeable. The consequences of the nerve damage suffered in the accident are much more serious. According to his own statements, the experienced racer can only lift his right arm with considerable effort. In a video posted on his social media channels, he commented on his condition: “Fans have been asking me when I’ll be back riding. I’d love nothing more than to do that, but at the moment I’m not able to.”
Medical examinations revealed that several nerves in his right arm were severely damaged in the crash. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan revealed the damage but did not provide a definitive explanation for the functional limitations. Hickman is currently undergoing further treatment with specialists in London. A planned operation should provide further clarity and, hopefully, improvement. The rider explained: “By Friday evening or Saturday morning, we should hopefully know what’s going on and how to proceed.”
Outlook
It remains unclear when Peter Hickman will be able to get back on his motorcycle. Recovery from the accident is proving more complicated than initially expected, particularly due to the nerve damage. The motorsport world is eagerly awaiting further developments and wishes him a full recovery.
- Schuberth 4157215360Schuberth C5, Klapphelm – Schwarz – M (56/57) male
