13:42
The Cathedral of Speed
Races have been held in Assen since 1925. At that time the race distance was still 28.4 kilometers and led through the nearby villages. Until 2020, the TT Circuit was the only track where the motorcycle world championship was permanently held. Then Corona threw a spanner in the works.
1:30 p.m
Two Germans at the start
Jonas Folger has been a regular guest on the MotoGP grid for the past few weeks and months, even though he usually finishes last as a test rider. Today Stefan Bradl is also allowed to play again – he replaces Álex Rins on the LCR-Honda, who broke his leg in Mugello. The factory Honda made vacant by Marc Márquez’s injury will not be filled.
13:21
Duel between Bezzecchi and Bagnaia?
Marco Bezzecchi, who won yesterday’s sprint race from pole position, is in the best mood so far. The man from the VR46 academy also showed better pace than the championship leader over half the race distance. However, tire management will also play a much greater role today over the 26 laps than yesterday.
13:15
Martín with difficulties after the Sachsenring success
Francesco Bagnaia, Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martín have the best chances of winning the World Championship. Of the leading trio, the Spaniard had to struggle with the greatest difficulties this weekend, was only tenth in qualifying and therefore has to start from the fourth row of the grid in both races. In the sprint he at least saved a sixth place, but after the double victory at the Sachsenring he is only entitled to an outsider role today.
13:10
Marquez is not there
Marc Márquez was declared unfit by the doctors, although he unsuccessfully took part in the sprint race yesterday. After the five-fold fall at the Sachsenring, the injuries are still too serious – but the decisive factor for the doctors’ verdict was not the ankle injury or the fracture of the left thumb, but the broken ribs, which continue to cause him severe pain. After all, the six-time MotoGP world champion has the opportunity to fully recover during the summer break.
13:04
Welcome!
Happy sunny Sunday afternoon and welcome to the MotoGP race in Assen, the Dutch cathedral of motorcycling. It starts at 2 p.m., unfortunately without the six-time world champion.