The Aprilia Racing Team pairing of Marco Melandri and Sylvain Guintoli is looking forward to the upcoming racing weekend at the Assen TT Circuit. The third round of the eni FIM Superbike World Superbike will provide both riders the opportunity to challenge for podium placings and try and stop the impressive momentum of their main rivals, Kawasaki Racing Team's Tom Sykes and Loris Baz.

Back in 1998 Marco Melandri won his first race at international level at Assen, whilst contesting his rookie year in the 125cc World Championship. The Italian rider has though never climbed on the Dutch podium so far in WSBK, unlike Guintoli who won here his maiden race in the series, in 2012. Guintoli also had his first ever Gran Prix rostrum finish in 2003 – a third place scored in the 250cc class.

Marco Melandri: "Assen is a unique track and coming here after a round like Aragon really motivates me and makes me want to get even better. I hope the weather won't too changeable and I hope to qualify well because overtaking at Assen is not a simple matter. In any case my Aprilia RSV4 will be up to the task and I can't wait to get back on the track".

Sylvain Guintoli: "We had a tough time in Aragon but it's in those moments that you fight and learn to get better. The next track is a special place for me. I had my first world stage podium in 250 with Aprilia back in 2003 and my first WSBK race win two years ago. I’m looking forward to racing in Assen, a great track that produces great racing”.