Casey Stoner, a former MotoGP champion and back surgery patient, confirmed he faced a mid-2026 neck operation. Two decades ago, his racing injuries caused lasting damage. His procedure targeted decades of acquired damage from motorbike crashes. Prior to the treatment, Stoner described the pain as “unbearable”. He also reflected on carrying years of suffering because of the injury. Wild speculation about his health continued for years . Doctors expected the procedure to reduce long-lasting lower back strain in the end.