MotoGP rider Alex De Angelis has been discharged from hospital to continue his recovery from serious injuries at his native San Marino home.

The 31-year-old sustained an intracranial bleed, several broken ribs and vertebrae and a lung contusion in a horrific practice crash at the Japanese Grand Prix.

De Angelis spent two weeks in the intensive care unit at Japan’s Dokkyo’s University Hospital before being transferred to a hospital in San Marino, where he spent 48 hours prior to his release.

Doctors have confirmed that De Angelis has made significant progress to prompt the discharge, although the Ioda rider faces a lengthy recovery process before he can contemplate riding again.

“I’m really happy to be back home. This is a very positive sign for me and I’m looking forward to getting back to train,” said De Angelis.

“The doctors have ruled out for the time I come back on my bike, but it’s ok because in the winter however you cannot try or ride.

“I will use this time to get back in shape and to get to the first test of the next year ready for the season.

“Once again I want to thank all the medical staff who assisted me both in Japan and in San Marino.

“Thanks again to the Clinica Mobile and to all the fans and friends that make me feel their closeness, even when I was away.”

Australian Damian Cudlin has filled in for the injured De Angelis at Phillip Island and Sepang this month.