Fabio Quartararo is optimistic about overcoming his recent performance slump as he heads into the MotoGP Dutch Grand Prix at Assen this weekend. The French rider believes the race conditions there will allow him to fight at the front and regain competitive form after difficulties at the last two rounds in Aragon and Italy.
Earlier in the European season, the 26-year-old secured pole position three weekends in a row, showing strong qualifying pace. However, his results fell short in Italy and Aragon, where various challenges affected his performance. Quartararo is confident that Assen’s unique track and environmental factors will better suit his Yamaha bike and riding style.
Track Conditions at Assen Favor Quartararo’s Comeback
Quartararo explained on Thursday that Assen lacks some of the problematic features he faced at Mugello, which contributed to his struggles. He identified four key conditions — long straights, high temperatures, low surface grip, and tire degradation — that negatively impacted his bike in Italy.
“[Long] straights, [hot] temperatures, [low surface] grip and degradation of the tyre. These are the four things that make our bike really bad or not. At Mugello, [all] four of them were there – and normally the four of them are not here,”
Quartararo said. These factors combined made Mugello a difficult round, while Assen’s layout and weather typically offer cooler temperatures, better grip, and less tire wear.
The forecast for the Dutch GP weekend predicts temperatures unlikely to exceed 30°C, which contrasts with the hotter conditions experienced in Italy. This should help Quartararo’s Yamaha perform closer to its potential.
Positive Outlook for Performance and Physical Recovery
Quartararo expressed hope for a strong weekend, though he remains cautious about predicting exact results.
“I feel like we can have a great opportunity this weekend. I don’t know if [I will fight] for the victory, for the podium or for the top five but at least I know I can enjoy fighting at the front,”
he said, emphasizing his readiness to compete.
Additionally, he reported that his shoulder dislocation from the recent Italian GP is no longer causing pain, removing any physical barriers to his performance. This recovery adds to his confidence ahead of the Dutch race.
Team Update: Alex Rins Confirms Full Fitness
Meanwhile, Yamaha teammate Alex Rins addressed rumors concerning injury struggles. Rins insisted he is fully fit and able to perform without limitations.
“I am at 100% and I do not have any issues riding the bike,”
he stated on Thursday, shutting down speculation about ongoing physical problems.
Both riders hope to position Yamaha strongly in the upcoming race, with Quartararo aiming to move back towards front-running results and Rins eager to capitalize on his clear fitness.
Significance of this Weekend’s Race for Quartararo’s Season
Assen represents a crucial opportunity for Quartararo to reverse his recent dip and reinforce his competitiveness in the 2024 MotoGP championship. Success at the Dutch GP could restore momentum and confidence, potentially impacting his approach to the remaining European races.
The combination of favorable track conditions, improved physical health, and positive mindset makes Quartararo hopeful that he can fight at the front once more, rejoining the leading pack in what has been a challenging phase of his season.
