After a World Superbike career lasting 16 years Eugene Laverty deserved a fairy tale ending, but was instead airlifted to hospital after crashing out of the season-ending event in Australia.
The Northern Ireland rider, who was twice championship runner-up, crashed out of his final race and was flown to hospital with pelvic injuries.
The Bonovo BMW rider crashed with Spain's Xavi Fores as the pair battled for position with five laps remaining of race two at the Phillip Island circuit. The race was red-flagged and Laverty was left with pain to his right leg and pelvis. He was reported to be conscious, according to the BBC.
