Rookie replaces Konishi at 'Ring.

Although injured Australian Ant West will be present at the Sachsenring this weekend, Japanese GP500 rider Yoshiteru Konishi will not.

The Technical Sports rider broke his hand in a fall at the Dutch TT last month, and aggravated the injury in practice at Donington Park ten days ago. Such was his discomfort at the British round that he took no part in second qualifying or the race, and has now returned to Japan for surgery.

His place on the TSR Honda in Germany will be taken by compatriot, and MotoGP rookie, Tekkyu Kayo, who has been nominated for a one-off ride as replacement. The 18-year, who is still completing his studies in Japan, has twice competed in his national GP, but never on a 500.

''I did not expect the chance [to ride a 500] would come this early,'' he admitted, ''I am honestly very surprised to be offered the opportunity, but also very happy. I am currently competing in the All-Japan 250cc Championship, so this will be my first ride on a 500 - and in a grand prix abroad. I will try hard, and hope to learn a lot from this weekend in order to develop my racing career. I will
make the most of it.''

Konishi had hoped to be fit in time for the German race, but was told by doctors to rest his hand for another couple of weeks after they inserted a plate and screws to hold the broken bones in place. Konishi now hopes to return to action in time for the Suzuka 8Hrs at the end of the month.

''I am disappointed [to miss the grand prix],'' Konishi said, ''as the reason I flew back to Japan for the operation was to get ready in time for the coming round. I was told that the bone had fractures in two places, so it is no wonder that I could not get a grip at Donington Park. I have to apologise to my team and the sponsors who had been supporting me, but there is nothing I can do about it, but promise to work on rehab and be fit soon.''