If you look at the numbers, it’s clear that Marc Buchner has moved up one spot every year. It all started in 2017, when he finished fourth overall in the IDM Supersport 600. A year later, he finished the season in third place, and last year he was runner-up.
One rider has been ahead of him every year: Max Enderlein, the two-time champion and defending title holder. What is Yamaha YZF-R6 rider Buchner's plan now?
The 29-year-old from Königswinter isn’t making any predictions. In a season shortened to eight races due to the coronavirus pandemic, anything can happen. “I’m trying to drive consistently and make as few mistakes as possible.” Buchner is really looking forward to the race. During test runs at Oschersleben, he beat his time from last year.
Competing in the ONK SuperCup600—the Dutch championship—also paid off for the rider with the number “47.” Buchner finished third at Assen behind Glenn van Straalen and Victor Steeman. “The focus wasn’t on winning the races. It was important to me just to race at all to get back into the rhythm,” Buchner assured. The competition was not to be underestimated. Van Straalen’s main focus is on the Supersport 300 World Championship, and Steeman knows his home track like the back of his hand. Buchner will, however, face him again in the IDM Supersport 600. And as is well known, the IDM season opener takes place from August 14–16, 2020, at the TT Circuit Assen. That’s when things will get really serious for everyone. Buchner has been out on his race bike every weekend lately to strengthen his starting position.