Marc Marquez Tackles Assen with Caution Amid Tyre Concerns
The Dutch TT is set to be a thrilling event, with Marquez and other top riders battling it out on a challenging circuit. However, the controversy surrounding the medium front tyre has raised concerns about safety, and it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold. With the riders calling for a change in the tyre allocation, the focus will be on finding a solution that prioritizes safety and performance.
Marc Marquez is set to tackle the Dutch TT at Assen, a circuit where he has historically had moderate success, with only two wins in MotoGP. Meanwhile, Pedro Acosta, the top-ranked KTM rider, approaches the 10th round with humility, acknowledging past difficulties on the circuit.
Acosta prioritizes a collective effort, highlighting the potential of KTM's factory rider Maverick Viñales, who has performed well at Assen in recent years. Acosta's goal for Friday is to directly qualify for Q2, and he remains cautious about potential new features on the RC16, expecting them after the summer holidays. Marquez, on the other hand, is poised to break another "myth" at Assen, having recently broken the "myth" that he struggles at circuits like Qatar and Mugello, where he won two races.
However, the talk of the paddock is the criticism of Michelin's medium front tyre, which has been blamed for a crash-strewn day at the Dutch TT. Riders, including Aleix Espargaro and Fabio Di Giannantonio, have expressed concerns about the tyre's safety, citing its unpredictable nature and tendency to lose grip. The limited allocation of soft tyres has led to riders being forced to use the medium tyre, which is not suitable for the track conditions.
As the riders continue to voice their concerns, it remains to be seen whether Michelin will make any changes to the tyre allocation. With Marquez and other top riders set to take on the challenging Assen circuit, the focus will be on safety and performance. Can Marquez break the "myth" and claim a third win at Assen, or will the tyre concerns overshadow the racing action?