Police say Gino Rea fell into a coma after crash at 8 Hours of Suzuka

The Kyodo News Agency cite that Japanese police provided this update on the British rider's condition.

An initial statement by race organisers read: “Rea received initial treatment at the track before being transported to hospital by helicopter.

“An update on the rider’s condition will follow when more information becomes available.”

The FCC TSR Honda rider was involved in an accident during Free Practice 2 after crashing at the Triangle Chicane. It is known he was unconscious when airlifted to hospital, while subsequent multiple reports say he has head, chest and lung injuries.

The Kyodo News Agency reports Rea's Honda 'slammed into the wall' during the accident, adding 'spectators and race staff were not injured'.

Occurring just prior to the Top 10 Trial Shootout to decide pole position, which Rea would have contested alongside team-mates Josh Hook and Mike di Meglio.

"This is the first time I have mixed feelings after the Suzuka 8 Hours qualifying is over," FCC TSR France manager Masakazu Fujii said later.

"We had to battle on after Gino had a big crash during free practice before Qualifying, was air-lifted to the hospital, and we had no way of knowing how he was. We’re praying for him, and will do anything we can. Considering the circumstances, the team did a great job, and Josh getting us fourth on the grid was an amazing effort.

"I would like to let Gino know as well. We’ll do our best [in the race]."

Rea's crash came at the same part of the Suzuka Circuit where Dajiro Kato was killed during the 2003 Japanese MotoGP round. The accident led to Suzuka being dropped from the MotoGP schedule citing concerns over safety.