Image: Octopi Media.

A painful lower back has left Malcolm Stewart sidelined for the remainder of today’s opening SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) playoff in Charlotte, instead aiming to return next weekend.

The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider comes into the post-season as the third seed in 450SMX, but an injury picked up on Friday has ended SMX Playoff 1 prematurely.

“Pain experienced in his lower back from Friday practice will place Malcolm Stewart on the sidelines today in Charlotte,” a brief statement from the team confirmed.

“Following an attempt to ride earlier today, the decision has been made to reset and he plans to return for SMX Playoff 2 next weekend.”

With Stewart out, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna will turn its attention solely to RJ Hampshire – who qualified seventh on combined times for this afternoon – in addition to SMX Next entry, Landon Gibson.