Marc Marquez admitted that a sixth‑place finish is the best outcome he can target at Assen after an underwhelming sprint.
Safe Mode for a Harsh Circuit
During the sprint, the Ducati rider was held in seventh on track, then moved up to sixth when Bagnaia received a penalty for cutting the final corner. Marquez explained why a “safe‑mode” approach is necessary this weekend, citing the demanding track layout.
“At Assen you need to feel every movement. I feel I can push on straight braking, but when the bike enters a corner without throttle, the rear lacks the momentum that the engine can give,” he said. “I come from a left one, jump right to brake, and the bike pushes forward; that instability made me fall on Friday morning.”
Marquez also noted the track’s gravel detours and the sudden change of direction, which have made the race battles more precarious. “I’m not able to manage those left‑to‑right turns cleanly at the moment,” he added, acknowledging the physical challenge for a rider who has battled injury for the last two seasons.
Reassessing Expectations for 2026
He stressed the need to accept lower points on certain circuits, describing this season as a “survival” race. “I’m doing at 100 % but I cannot push harder now. Some tracks I will finish second or third; others I must accept eighth or beyond,” Marquez said.
Marquez reflected that Ducati’s rivals, particularly Aprilia, hold clear advantages on circuits like Assen. “They thrive on fast corners, and we’re knowing that here they’re stronger than us. Diggia and Bagnaia showed they’re very well‑raced, and that has to be respected.”
Aprilia’s Dominant Sprint Performance
The sprint saw Aprilia lock out the top four positions, securing pole for the full distance. Marquez admitted the Aprilia team capitalised on their superior handling in the straight‑lined sections of the circuit.
With Bagnaia gaining a small advantage after the penalty, the race concluded with Marquez in sixth, on par with his pre‑race expectations, while the Dutch riders continued to assert their dominance.
"