Elias aborts early return.

Fortuna Yamaha rider Toni Elias has been forced to abort his early return from injury after testing the strength of his healing wrist and ankle during day one of the Catalan Grand Prix - his home race.

After a promising start in the morning session, in which he completed 23 laps, Elias struggled in the afternoon hour and will not attempt to ride tomorrow.

"I tried my best today. I really wanted to spend some time on the bike this weekend, more in preparation for Assen than for producing a great result here," said Toni. "This morning everything went really well. I was surprised at my pace and how comfortable I felt despite the way I'm bandaged up.

"But this afternoon was different story. I had no strength at all. I could barely hang onto the bike, which is a dangerous way to ride a MotoGP bike. So I've decided to wait until Assen before going back out on the bike," he explained.

Elias was 18th fastest this morning and 19th fastest this afternoon after just 8 laps. The young Spaniard will now be replaced, once again, by countryman David Checa who finished 19th on his debut MotoGP last weekend at Mugello.

"I feel bad for Toni. I would prefer not to have to substitute for him in these circumstances, but there's nothing that can be done in reality," said David, younger brother of Carlos. "I will try to give my best at a less demanding circuit than Mugello. Although it will not be easy for me because I only have one day to prepare for the race, I will give it my all."