As the Red Bull X-Fighters kicks off in Mexico, spare a thought for the 2008 champion, Mat Rebeaud. The FMX legend was injured in training and is having to sit out the opening rounds of this year's series. But you can't keep a good man down and the Swiss still has is sights set on success.
Can you talk us through the crash?
I was coming back down to the bike after a trick and touched my front brake by accident. The front of the bike went down and I wasn’t able to get fully back on before I crashed.
What went through your mind while it was happening?
Mainly I was just trying to do whatever I could to make it better and brace for the impact.
Is this the worst injury you’ve had in FMX?
It’s up there, but it’s tough to say if it was the worst: my broken femur wasn’t much fun.
What’s the worst thing about being injured?
Not riding.
How long do you think it will be before you’re back in action?
I’m hoping to be back for Red Bull X-Fighters in Egypt and then make an impact on the series.
How will you fill your time?
I’ll be in the gym and working on building my new foam pit in Switzerland
What are you most looking forward to doing when the cast comes off?
Working in the gym to build my muscle mass back up.
Which is your favourite venue for Red Bull X-Fighters?
I’ve had a lot of success in Mexico and Madrid but Madrid was my first Red Bull X Fighters and you never forget your first.
Where is the best place you’ve ridden FMX?
Glamis was fun and I really like riding at Wyvern in California.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in FMX?
Practice, practice, practice...
What new moves have you got for this year?
That’s going to have to be a surprise when I come back.
There are some new faces on the tour, do you know much about them?
I’ve spent some time with Levi Sherwood and some of the others.
Who’s your tip for the title?
I’m not ready to give up on it myself.
You can catch up with Mat at his official website.
Rebeaud, the reluctant spectator