Bezzecchi still not feeling 100% ahead of German GP following 130mph Assen crash

So far this season, Aprilia have been the stand-out team on the grid, dominating the majority of races not just with their factory duo of Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin, but also with their satellite Trackhouse team, who finished 1-2 last time out in a historic victory for Japan's Ai Ogura.

It's no secret that the team's primary title hopes lie with their Italian rider, Bezzecchi, and in the fast part of the year 'Bez' seemed like an unstoppable force. He dominated the opening three weekends with his only weakness showing in sprint races, which just about enabled the others to stay in touch. However, since Hungary, things have been very different as an obvious mood shift has occurred within the team.

As pressure mounts with every passing race, the mistakes are also increasing. In Hungary, Jorge Martin made a Turn 1 error which brought an early end to Bezzecchi's weekend. Next, Bezzecchi was handed a one race ban for slapping a marshall in Brno. Then, in Assen, Bezzecchi suffered a huge 130mph crash through the Ram's Hook corner and once again finished a Sunday with zero points.

Ahead of the German Grand Prix at the Sachsenring this weekend, Bezzecchi is keen to return to winning ways but admitted he will likely not be fully recovered in time for the start of the weekend.

"I’m happy and keen to get back in the saddle," said Bezzecchi, “I obviously hope to improve a bit more in terms of physical condition over the next few days, but my recovery has been going well so far."

As for the mental reset many believe he needs, Bezzecchi is keen to emphasize the team spirit at Aprilia, and will be leaning on them for their continued support:

“I can’t wait to embrace my team again because, after Assen, we need to see one another again and continue looking forward together.”