The season started extremely well for Aleix and his Aprilia, with sixth place obtained at the first Grand Prix in Qatar. Despite a ninth place subsequently in Jerez, the rest of the season was less brilliant, with numerous technical problems and sometimes a bit of bad luck.
The Assen race will therefore be an opportunity to regain health for the Spanish rider and his Italian machine, on a circuit which suits the characteristics of the bike quite well. The recent tests in Barcelona following the Grands Prix took place in a generally positive manner and all hopes are therefore high for the RS-GP at the Circuit van Drenthe.
To Alex Espargaro, « After three races with zero points, we deserve to show the true potential of Aprilia RS-GP and I hope we can get a good result in Assen.
“I really like the circuit. During the tests in Montmelò we confirmed that we have good pace in race simulation, so now it is time to demonstrate it with an excellent Sunday."
According to the Aprilia Competition Director Roman Albesian, « We are heading to Holland with high expectations. Assen is one of the tracks best suited to the characteristics of RS-GP.
“The track requires stability in the fast sections, although the last part with the chicane also requires a certain amount of agility.
“One of the fundamental questions will be the weather which we hope will remain stable (in one way or another) throughout the weekend. »
According to the team manager Fausto Gresini, « We constantly demonstrate that we have great potential, but for one reason or another the end result has eluded us.
“Personally, I am satisfied with the competitiveness of the RS-GP. We are at a very high level and unfortunately a hiccup or two is expected as we grow.
“We go to Assen comforted by many positive signs and well aware that we still have a way to go, but we are not afraid of hard work. »
