Joe Roberts' Dutch Grand Prix is certainly not going as the American had planned. Author of a satisfactory start to the weekend, the No. 16 crashed during P1 of Moto2, and fell twice on his collarbone. An incident which compromises the rest of his weekend, and his position in the championship.
Joe Roberts' weekend at Assen started in a positive manner with a top-10 during FP. Also in good form in P1, the American continued the fast laps before propelling himself to the top of the standings.
Just after this feat, much less encouraging news awaited him. The American Racing driver fell in turn 7, and landed first on his collarbone, then a second time, carried away in his momentum.
Roberts remained on the ground for a long time, which already meant bad news. He then returned to the pit lane holding his arm. When he took off his helmet, the look on his face suggested the worst for the rest of his weekend. He was then taken to the medical center.
Just a few minutes after further examinations, the decision was made. The American will be withdrawn for the remainder of the race in Assen. A decision with serious consequences, since Roberts will therefore leave a door open to his championship rival.
Sergio Garcia's main opponent is currently seven points behind the latter, but this incident will allow the Spaniard to widen the gap if he scores this Sunday. Given his current form, and barring a major incident, he should have no difficulty in obtaining good results.
It remains to be seen whether Joe Roberts will be able to return in time to compete in the German Grand Prix which will already take place next week. Roberts will then have three weeks to recover, with the Grand Prix interruption imposed by the summer break.
