With Bagnaia coming off a perfect weekend at Assen and now just 10 points behind championship leader Martin, the tightest gap between the top two since Portugal, all eyes are on the Italian. This weekend also marks his 200th race in MotoGP and its feeder categories. However, Martin, who swept all 37 points available at the Sachsenring last year and has only crashed out once this season in Jerez, will be looking to bounce back strongly.
“Sachsenring, the street, ask around who’s the boss.” Marc Marquez’s domination at the circuit since 2010 is no exaggeration – he’s never lost there when racing. Despite his absence in recent years, Marquez’s incredible record makes him a strong contender to end his nearly 1000-day win drought this weekend.
Bastianini, known for his late-race charge, needs to improve his starts to make life easier. Vinales has been consistent lately and is another former Sachsenring standout. Meanwhile, Esptein, recovering from a finger injury, awaits medical clearance for what could be his 329th GP start, ranking third all-time. VR46’s Di Giannantonio and Bezzecchi, with their future secured, need to build momentum, while Alex Marquez aims to repay the team’s faith.
Binder has shown some stability after a string of crashes, but more is expected. Acknowledged as a title contender, he needs to aim higher. Acosta’s honeymoon period seems over, and he’ll be seeking more consistency. Miller and Fernandez have been underwhelming recently, needing to step up to secure their future. Raul Fernandez is finding his rhythm, while Oliveira is hovering near the points. Trackhouse’s riders might steal some attention soon.
Yamaha’s partnership announcement with Pramac signals a commitment to progress. Quartararo, nearing his 100th MotoGP start, could find himself back on familiar winning ground, while Remy Gardner fills in for the injured Linas at the Sachsenring. Honda confirmed Espargaro as a test rider next year, joining Marini and Zakaro in development work. Mir’s contract talks are heating up, while Takagi needs to raise his game. Bradl also gets another home race chance as a test rider.
As numerous plotlines unfold, what story will Sachsenring script? Only time will tell.
(Edited by Asan)
