Kamaz Master driver Akhmedov withdraws after spinal fracture

Kamaz Master driver Almaz Akhmedov was diagnosed with a spinal compression fracture after a stage of the Velikaya Step rally raid in Kalmykia, the team said. His crew has withdrawn from the event.

Akhmedov said the first 50 kilometres went smoothly before the truck hit a deep hole beyond a hill. His back injury prevented him from continuing, and the vehicle was also damaged.

Nikolaev said the crew underwent examinations that identified Akhmedov's fracture. The driver also said he was awaiting MRI results and had been advised to restrict movement.

Velikaya Step is the fourth and final round of the Russian rally raid championship. Akhmedov is due to undergo recovery in Kurgan after the examinations.