Luca Marini, the official Honda rider, will miss the Dutch Grand Prix at Assen, replaced by Aleix Espargaró. The Italian, who suffered a crash in preparation for the Suzuka 8 Hours, is continuing his recovery but is planning a return to competition at the German Grand Prix at Sachsenring.
During his presence in the Mugello paddock, Marini gave news of his condition: " I'm fine, but It will take me a little while before I can drive again. “, he explained.
The main difficulty concerns a sternum fracture, which severely limits his physical training. Despite a few light sessions, the pain remains present: “ This is what bothers me most at the moment, because it affects not only training but also everyday gestures »
To prepare for his return, Marini plans to participate in a private test organized by Honda in Brno, just after the Dutch Grand PrixThe goal is to get back on track in a controlled environment, before an official resumption in Germany.
« This test is important to meThe Brno track is relatively undemanding physically, making it a good place to start again.. » On the training side, Marini remains limited: no running possible, little cardio, but he can do a little cycling, like many pilots MotoGP.
Luca Marini: “ With Honda, we talk calmly, without pressure. It is important that everything is clear to both parties. »
From a technical point of view, Marini highlights the progress of Honda in the field of electronics: " Our engineers are doing a very good job. On this point, we are perhaps the best »
However, he notes that the bike still lacks mechanical grip, especially when exiting corners. He has high hopes for the arrival of the new traction control system, the "Slide Control", planned for the Austrian Grand Prix, as well as in the new carbon swingarm, already available.
The latter, according to him, improves the sensations when entering corners and overall stability, without however completely resolving the acceleration problems. Finally, regarding its future with Honda, Marini indicates that discussions for a possible extension are underway:
« We speak calmly, without pressure. It is important that everything is clear to both parties.. » The discussions are open and constructive, with the aim of clarifying the situation before the second half of the season. He thus suggests a probable extension. With his determination and the support of his team, Marini is ready to come back stronger than ever!
