Shane Byrne update: Six-time British Superbikes champion to have surgery on broken back and neck injuries

The 41-year-old crashed in testing at Norfolk’s Snetterton circuit

Shane Byrne remains in hospital after fracturing vertebrae and injuring his neck (Getty)

Reigning British Superbike champion Shane Byrne will undergo surgery next week on a broken back after suffering a serious crash in testing at Snetterton.

The 41-year-old was taken to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital after crashing his Be Wiser Ducati at Farmer corner, with BSB announcing on Saturday that the six-time British champion has suffered “a range of injuries”.

While the full extent of those injuries is not yet known, is was confirmed that Byrne has fractured more than one vertebrae in his spine, and it’s also understood that he hurt his neck in the accident.

A statement read: “Shane remains in the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital under observation for a range of injuries. The BSB Medical Team have been liaising closely with Shane’s family and the hospital regarding his condition.

“A surgical procedure to stabilise spinal fractures is planned for the beginning of next week, with treatment for other injuries planned thereafter. Further updates will be provided post-surgery.”

Byrne crashed in testing at Snetterton (Getty)

The update leaves Byrne doubtful for the next round of the championship, which takes place at Snetterton on 15-17 June after the mid-season break, and having won the last two championships, his hopes of securing an unprecedented third straight title look to have suffered a serious setback.

Byrne is the most successful rider in the championship’s history, with no other man or woman winning more than three titles.