The Dutch Grand Prix at Assen will be remembered for many reasons, although most of them were only loosely connected to the sporting action. Marc Marquez made it clear that only he can throw away his shot at a seventh MotoGP crown with a stunning sprint and grand prix double, Diogo Moreira delivered Brazil its first-ever victory in Moto2 and Jose Antonio Rueda took another step toward clinching a Moto3 title that he arguably deserves more than most.
All significant, but nothing extraordinary considering the three riders involved. However, in the Netherlands, there was arguably more activity in the paddock offices and motorhomes than on the track itself. The biggest stir, as has been the case in recent months, was caused by the ongoing conflict between Jorge Martin and Aprilia over differing interpretations of a clause in the contract they signed just over a year ago. A dispute that continues to escalate and, with new players entering the scene, is making reconciliation between the reigning world champion and the Noale-based manufacturer increasingly unlikely.
