PARIS: Australia's two-time world champion Casey Stoner announced on Wednesday he will return earlier than first thought for the Japan MotoGP after missing the last three races following serious leg injuries he suffered in qualifying for the Indianapolis MotoGP in mid-August.

The 26-year-old - who is retiring at the end of the season - had intended on returning for his home Grand Prix on October 28 but instead he will be back on his Honda a fortnight earlier.

"I have spent a quiet week in Australia," Stoner wrote on his blog.

"I have been resting, doing a little physio and following doctors' orders in order to recover.

"The good news is that I think I will be able to ride at Motegi (the Japanese circuit) and rejoin my team next week. I can't wait!"

Stoner's hopes of retaining his title evaporated with the crash in Indianapolis which saw him tear ligaments and fractures to his ankle, tibia and fibula leaving him 104 points off leader Jorge Lorenzo with only a maximum 100 on offer in the four remaining races.

However, he can affect the final outcome of who succeeds him as champion.

2010 world champion Lorenzo leads compatriot Dani Pedrosa by 33 points with the latter - Stoner's team-mate - having slightly narrowed the gap in winning last Sunday's Aragon MotoGP ahead of the series leader. - AFP

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