The Dutch Grand Prix at Assen offered Ducati Lenovo a valuable double podium. Marc Marquez once again imposed his rule by taking victory, while Pecco Bagnaia settled for third place. Satisfied but lucid, Davide Tardozzi, director of the red Ducati team, delivered a frank and precise analysis of the performances of his two factory riders.
Interrogé sur GP One on the Spanish champion's weekend, Tardozzi was full of praise: " I think Marc has acquired a particular confidence on the bike and that he can be expected to fight for victory on all circuitsHe is in great shape, both physically and mentally, and his current maturity, after everything he has endured in recent years, is clearly reflected in his race management. »
But despite this apparent domination, the Italian boss recalls that Marquez remains human: " There are always weak points, as with all driversBut what sets him apart is his professionalism: his collaboration with the engineers is exceptional.This ability to analyze and adapt makes him even more dangerous for his rivals. »
Davide Tardozzi: “ Pecco Bagnaia continues to demonstrate the champion and talent that he is »
Concerning Pecco Bagnaia, Tardozzi is not unaware of the difficulties his reigning champion is going through: " Pecco lacked consistency at one point in the race. Perhaps something prevented him from giving his best, but he continues to demonstrate the champion and talent that he is. Sometimes he gives so much that he doesn't allow himself to lose half a second. »
However, the podium snatched from Assen is not to be dismissed out of hand: " Of course it's positive. I've been saying it since the beginning of the year: Pecco still has his speed. The problem is that he hasn't been given the right bike yet., especially when braking and entering corners. We're working on it. When we find it, he'll be able to compete with Marc. »
For Tardozzi, the equation is clear: " We know who Pecco is, we know him well. He doesn't lack speed, that's obvious.. But he's missing that touch of confidence that allows him to ride with the same ease as last year. And that's something we're determined to regain. »
The situation at Ducati is therefore both encouraging and complex. If Marc Marquez seems more than ever on the way to a new world title, Tardozzi remains convinced that bagnaia can become a formidable rival again. The rest of the season could then turn into a fratricidal duel... between two teammates.
MotoGP, Assen: race classification
Championship after Assen:
