Bastianini sets the pace in interrupted FP1

A mid-session sprinkling of rain meant most riders stayed in the pits, Enea Bastianini setting an early fast lap to lead the session.

As the forecasts predicted the Motul TT Assen began in less than ideal conditions, heavy clouds threatening rain throughout. The threat would soon become a reality as with 25 minutes remaining the rain flag was brought out, sending everyone into the pits. Tricky conditions couldn’t stop Khairul Idham Pawi (Honda Team Asia) from lapping, the Malaysian one to watch on race day if the weather is less than cooperative.

Few riders chose to head back out after the rain, the track not wet enough for full wet tyres but too damp for slicks. As such Enea Bastianini’s (Gresini Racing Moto3) 1’45.331 from early in the session stood as the fastest time of Free Practice 1.

Just behind was fellow Italian Niccolo Antonelli (Ongetta-Rivacold), 0.279s slower. Aron Canet (Estrella Galicia 0,0) was third, his first run on track cut short by a highside at Turn 8. Times were over four seconds slower than the lap record, conditions far from productive.

Leopard Racing duo Fabio Quartararo (Leopard Racing) and Joan Mir (Leopard Racing) completed the top five just ahead of teammate Andrea Locatelli (Leopard Racing).

Championship leader Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was in seventh, a second slower than 'The Beast' but not worrying about his pace just yet.

Due to breaking his leg in a training accident, Jorge Navarro (Estrella Galicia 0,0) will not race in Assen. FIM CEV Repsol Moto3™ Junior World Championship points leader Lorenzo Dalla Porta has stepped in as his replacement, ending his first session on the Honda in 23rd.

Navarro wasn’t the only rider missing, Karel Hanika no longer racing with the Platinum Bay Real Estate team, Grand Prix veteran Danny Webb returning to the World Championship for the first time in three years. He was 29th.

Andrea Migno (SKY Racing Team VR46) was the first faller of the weekend, coming off at Turn 1 early in the session. Gabriel Rodrigo (RBA Racing Team) also fell during the session. All riders walked away from their crashes unharmed.