SUZUKA (Japan), April 6: Japanese rider Daijiro Kato was still fighting for his life late on Sunday night after suffering severe head, neck and chest injuries in a horrific crash at the season-opening Japanese Grand Prix.

The 26-year-old, who lost control of his Honda as he approached the chicane, was rushed by helicopter to an intensive care unit after medical staff had battled to get his heart beating again as he lay unconscious on the Suzuka track.

His condition was still being described as “life-threatening” some 12 hours after he slammed into a wall in a high-speed accident that marred a masterful victory by Italian MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi.

“Kato is still not regained consciousness. He is receiving the best possible treatment but there is no new information on his condition at this stage,” Suzuka officials told Reuters.

Race organisers said that the next 48 hours could prove critical for Kato.

“Only quick treatment from the Suzuka medical staff saved his life. His heart was beating when he arrived at the hospital but he is in a coma and fighting for his life,” medical director Claudio Macchiagodena told reporters.

“Scans confirmed Mr. Kato has severe injuries to his head, chest and neck. Doctors continued to try to revive him at the hospital but his condition is extremely serious.”

Macchiagodena added: “It is difficult to make a medical forecast. Riders often surprise us with quick recoveries. We hope he will show signs of improvement in the next 24 to 48 hours and we can be in a position to give you more news.”

Kato, who won the 250cc world title in 2001, skidded off while travelling at over 200kph, completely writing off his bike.

Italian Marco Melandri broke his ankle, nose and femur in another high-speed crash during practice on Friday.

MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi, who completed a hat-trick of Suzuka victories on Sunday, called the 5.824-km circuit “too dangerous” over the weekend.

Race director Paul Butler said organisers had yet to determine the cause of the crash.

“We have reviewed the video evidence and frankly we are none the wiser as to what caused this very tragic accident. Our thoughts and prayers go to Daijiro and his family,” he told reporters.—Reuters