Assen, June 26: The Ducati MotoGP team go into the Dutch TT at Assen hoping to build on their maiden success in Barcelona two weeks ago. Loris Capirossi's win at Catalunya was the first by an Italian rider on an Italian motorcycle since Giacomo Agostini on an MV Agusta at the Nurburgring circuit in 1976. In a thrilling race Capirossi held on for victory over world champion Valentino Rossi, who staged an amazing comeback from down the field after going off the track to finish second on his Honda. Although he has finished on the podium for the last twelve races, Rossi has not taken back-to-back wins since Estoril and Rio last September. His lead in the championship stands at 47 points over second-placed Sete Gibernau. Former world champion Kenny Roberts misses his second race in a row after suffering chest pains after crashing out at Mugello. A scan revealed deep soft tissue damage to his chest and upper abdomen. Although doctors suggested a further six weeks recuperation were necessary, he hopes to be fit for the Cinzano British Grand Prix at Donington Park on July 13.


The United Kingdom's Princess Anne the Princess Royal visited the circuit in Assen to continue her work with Riders for Health and meet some of the people involved in promoting the motorcycling charity of which she is Honorary President.


Bureau Report