Casey Stoner is aiming to make his MotoGP return in time for the Australian Grand Prix on Oct. 28.
The reigning MotoGP champion, who is retiring from the sport at the end of the season, has been sidelined since suffering ankle ligament damage in a crash at Indianapolis in August and is being replaced by British rider Jonathan Rea for at least the next two races. He has since had the ankle operated on in Australia, and is determined to be back on his Honda in time for the race at Phillip Island.
"My goal is to get on the bike. For it to end like this would be a disaster for me," Stoner said. "I've still got a season to finish. I've got a job to do and to see through. I'll be back as soon as I can to finish as many races as I can before the end of the season."
Australian GP CEO Andrew Westacot echoed Stoner comments and hopes that the five-time winner of the race will be back to compete in front of his home crowd.
"First and foremost Casey's health is paramount. We are thrilled to hear that he is recovering well from surgery and that he is looking forward to his home race," he said. "Casey is a remarkable individual and his achievements in MotoGP speak volumes. For him to come back so quickly from such a serious injury is a credit to himself and the medical team who have supported him."