Lascorz smiling in first post-crash photo

Nearly three months on since Joan Lascorz's accident in the post-race test at Imola, the first image has appeared showing the Spaniard in good spirits whilst he undergoes rehabilitation.

The terrible crash left the 27-year-old factory Kawasaki rider with a fracture to his C6 vertebrae, and fears that it would leave him quadriplegic. Fortunately, as shown in the picture with his raised arm, Lascorz has recovered full sensitivity in his upper limbs. He still hasn't regained feeling in his legs or abdominal area, but undeterred he will continue his rigorous 6 hours a day routine for the next 3-4 months.

In the picture with Lascorz, is Albert Llovera a former Olympic skier who was left paraplegic in a serious accident. An inspiration for Lascorz as he moved to rally driving and is currently the only disabled driver to take part in the WRC.

By Robin Goodwin