Motocross racer Pierce Brown sustained a broken T5 vertebrae during a crash in the main event of an undisclosed race, prompting immediate surgical intervention. The 21-year-old rider, part of the Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull/GASGAS Factory Racing team, shared the news via social media, confirming the injury and his subsequent surgery. Brown expressed gratitude to his medical team and fans, stating he is “focused on recovery” and determined to return to racing.
The T5 vertebra, located in the mid-thoracic spine, is critical for upper-body stability. Such injuries, while serious, often require months of rehabilitation. Brown’s team confirmed he will miss the remainder of the 2023 season but emphasized expectations for a full recovery.
The motocross community rallied around Brown, with peers like Justin Barcia and Chase Sexton posting supportive messages online. Team manager Tyler Keefe praised Brown’s resilience, calling him a “fighter” committed to bouncing back stronger.
Brown, a rising star in Supercross and Motocross, has earned accolades for his aggressive yet technical riding style. His absence leaves a gap in the 250SX Western Regional Championship standings, where he was a consistent contender.
Fans and colleagues alike have flooded social media with well-wishes, using hashtags like #HealUpPB. Brown’s positive outlook and access to top-tier medical care suggest a promising path to recovery, with hopes pinned on his return in 2024.