Gino Rea ‘opens eyes, moves legs, arms’ for first time Suzuka 8 Hours accident

Gino Rea has opened his eyes and been able to move his limbs for the first time since his accident in the build up to the Suzuka 8 Hours after being brought out of sedation for a period.

The British rider - who was due to compete in the classic endurance event with the FCC TSR Honda team - has been in a coma and kept under sedation since the accident on 6 August [Saturday].

Following a nervous wait for news in the days following the incident, Rea’s family confirmed he had suffered serious head injuries and swelling on the brain on 9 August [Tuesday]. A further update on 11 August [Thursday] stated Rea’s was showing ‘signs of recovery’ following a CT scan.

Now on 13 August [Saturday] - a week on from the accident - came more positive news with the BSB and WorldSSP race winner opening his eyes and moving his limbs after a reduction in uts anaesthesia medication.

“Had a good message from the doctor this morning,” the statement, posted on Rea’s Instagram page, read.

“His condition [on Saturday] morning was stable.

“Once we reduced the dose of anaesthesia medicine,he opened his eyes, and made eye contact in a very short term. By our direction, he could hold his hand.

“To keep him safe we administered sedation - this will help with his recovery.   

“Elaine, Shannon and Peter visited him today, as well as me and Isaella, he opened his eyes for short bursts and kicked his legs and moved his arms many times.

“Heading in the right direction.”