Carson Macedo is unfortunately not the only big-name driver forced to miss upcoming Sprint Car events in Australia because of injury. Rico Abreu revealed on Christmas Wednesday that an injury to his wrist will require surgery and thus sideline him from December and January Sprint Car events in The Land Down Under.

“I’m incredibly gutted to let everyone know I will not be racing Western Australia Speedweek,” The 32-year-old Abreu posted on social media Wednesday. “I hurt my wrist and the injury requires a surgery. I’ve gone back and forth on how to handle this situation. Trying to race with severely weak grip strength and mobility will put myself and my fellow racers in danger if I can’t react properly.”

The St. Helena, Calif., superstar emphasized that “getting my wrist fixed is my top priority so I can be ready by March“ for the Kubota High Limit Racing opener at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 13-15.

“I’ve never dealt with something like this in my career,“ Abreu said. “I feel I’m letting my team, my fans and the whole Australian effort we’ve created for this team down.“

Abreu had teamed with Monte Motorsports and the Dowling family for his Australian pursuit that was supposed to begin Dec. 26 at Perth Motorplex and continue Dec. 28-30 for High Limit International‘s $100,000-to-win event at Perth. 

“Thinking about all this has brought a few clear things to mind,” Abreu continued. “I’m in this situation and it’s my job to step up and be the one you hear it from. It’s an unfortunate situation but it’s one I have to fix. My head wants to hang but I’m gonna hold it high and understand something you have to wear and deal with it.”