“It’s business. Ducati wanted Marc because they have their ideas, I wanted to go to Aprilia because I have mine”
MotoGP is back! With all the buzz since Mugello, there’s plenty to discuss even before the action kicks off in the Netherlands. From interviews and press conferences to podcasts and more, here’s a recap of everything we witnessed on Thursday as the Motul TT Assen revs up.
Press Conferences: Motul TT Assen
JORGE MARTIN (Prima Pramac Racing)
After a positive first seven rounds, how are you feeling after a chance to recharge your batteries during the break?
“Thanks for asking about this year! I’m now focused, with a clear mind, and I feel capable of performing well. Mugello was tough for me mentally and emotionally, and it was hard to concentrate even though I tried to avoid thinking about my future. However, I was strong on Sunday, so with a clear mind, I believe I can focus on racing. Let’s see what I can do. Last year in qualifying, we made a big mistake that cost us in the race, but our pace was good, and I feel we can be competitive.”
How excited are you about the Aprilia challenge, and is it frustrating that you missed out on the factory Ducati seat?
“Mugello was an eventful weekend with a lot of changes in my plans and information. After the race, I realized I had to make a decision since things don’t always go as expected. It was frustrating after four years of trying to join the official team, but Ducati decided Marc was the better choice. I took the best opportunity available, and I believe I’ll be much happier as a factory rider, fulfilling my dream. I’m going to a team that wants me and will give 100% for me. There’s still a long season ahead, and I’m still a Ducati rider, aiming to finish the year strong.”
FRANCESCO BAGNAIA (Ducati Lenovo Team)
Do you think you can achieve a double win this weekend?
“The goal is certainly to win, but it will be challenging. Last year, I struggled at this track, but we worked hard and managed to get a double podium and a win. Jorge was strong here last year, with a pace two or three tenths faster than mine. I’m confident our bike will suit this track well, and we will improve and be much faster.”
Thoughts on Marc as your teammate next year?
“I wasn’t involved in the decision, as I wanted to stay focused on racing. Both Jorge and Marc are fast, and currently, Jorge is faster due to his experience with the bike. It’s a new challenge for me to beat a new teammate. Marc is smart and will adapt to the team and improve our situation.”
MARC MARQUEZ (Gresini Racing MotoGP™)
You have a great record here, so how much are you looking forward to racing on a Ducati for the first time?
“My goal is to stay close to Bagnaia and Martin, as they will be the fastest all weekend. The break allowed me to recharge, and now we have back-to-back races at Assen and the Sachsenring. We aim to start strong on Friday.”
How much are you looking forward to being in red for the next two years?
“I’m super happy and grateful to Ducati Corse for choosing me as Pecco’s teammate next year. A year ago, I thought my career might be over, but the summer break allowed me to recharge and reassess. Honda let me join Gresini, where I regained confidence and renewed myself as a rider. After Mugello, I was told I’d get the official seat, and we finalized the contract quickly. However, I’m still focused on finishing this season strong with Gresini.”
ENEA BASTIANINI (Ducati Lenovo Team)
After a fantastic podium at Mugello, are you optimistic about fighting for the podium this weekend?
“I come to Assen after a strong finish at Mugello. This track has been challenging in the past, but this is a new year, and I’m confident in our base setup. We have a good chance to fight for or be on the podium.”
What convinced you to choose KTM, and did you have any options with another Ducati team?
“After Mugello, once Ducati made their decision, the market moved quickly. It was a tough choice, but seeing the Tech3 team’s project, I saw the potential for winning and motivation for the future. Having Maverick as a teammate will be great. However, we need to focus on the present and achieve something good.”
MAVERICK VIÑALES (Aprilia Racing)
With your previous success at Assen, is this a chance to return to the podium this weekend?
“This track has been great for me, and I think my bike will perform well this year, so our aim is high. We need to stay calm and assess our situation. The weather looks stable, which is good for us, so we need to be smart in our race preparations.”
What made you feel it was the right time to move on?
“I followed my instinct, seeing the future potential of the bike. Not achieving that potential in more races influenced my decision. This challenge excites me, and betting on performance was the best choice I could make.”
MARCO BEZZECCHI (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team)
What is it about Assen that you like so much, and what are your expectations for this weekend?
“I love this track; it has fast and long corners that I enjoy. The past few years here have been amazing, and after the short break, I’m ready to start strong this weekend.”
How much are you looking forward to racing for the factory Aprilia team?
“Every rider dreams of becoming a factory rider, and I did too. My goal was to improve my skills and gain experience in MotoGP™ to eventually join a factory team. I had the opportunity, and it was the best choice for me.”
Official MotoGP Press Release
