SBK | Dutch GP Race 2, Locatelli: “It wasn't an easy weekend”

SBK Holland Yamaha – Andrea Locatelli finished Race 2 of the Dutch Grand Prix, third stage of the 2024 World Championship, in fifth position.

Speaking about the Superpole Race, Locatelli expresses disappointment at having been close to the podium but having missed the opportunity due to an avoided crash at the chicane. In Race 2, despite a good feeling with his R1 and a fast pace, Locatelli had some problems with the front brake, a new and unknown sensation. This led to him losing positions when Bautista overtook him on the straight, compromising his chances of finishing on the podium. Locatelli admits the bad luck of the weekend and the lack of points gained compared to the previous day. However, he remains confident in the package and promises to continue working to improve ahead of the next race in Misano. Finally, he thanks his team for their commitment and hard work during the weekend, aware of the difficulties in these conditions.

Statements Andrea Locatelli Holland Superbike

“It wasn't an easy weekend in Assen! In the Superpole Race we were happy to have recovered good positions and to be close to fighting for the podium, but at the chicane I avoided a bad fall which cost me this chance. In Race 2 the feeling with the R1 was honestly very good: everything was under control and I was fast, but I had some inconsistencies with the front brake. We don't know why and I've never had a feeling like this before, now we have some time to check the data and understand. With this, when Bautista passed me on the straight and we got to the first corner, I was braking hard but I didn't feel anything, so I went wide: here we lost the lead and the chance to get on the podium. We didn't do a bad job, but we were really unlucky this weekend and didn't gain many points compared to yesterday. We have to continue to work and believe in our package, and let's see what we can do for the next race. We have time and a few days of testing to gain more confidence, look at everything and see where we can be for Misano. I want to thank all my guys and the whole team because they worked really hard all weekend, it's never easy in these conditions."