Image: Octopi Media.

A back injury will rule Justin Barcia out of Saturday’s High Point National, Troy Lee Designs Red Bull Ducati Factory Racing has announced.

Barcia compressed his back during 450MX qualifying at Thunder Valley on the weekend and, despite finishing 15th in moto one, ultimately opted out of the second race.

Still experiencing discomfort, the decision has been made for the 34-year-old to sit out round four, and then he will also take advantage of the upcoming weekend off prior to round five.

“Justin is one of the toughest riders in the paddock and gave everything he had in that first moto in Thunder Valley,” commented team manager Josh Wisenor. “Right now, the priority is allowing him the time to recover properly, and we all look forward to having him back behind the gate.”

Barcia is also positioned 15th in the Pro Motocross Championship standings following three rounds. Teammate Dylan Ferrandis enters Mt. Morris fifth in points after delivering a standout fourth-place result at Hangtown.