'It's a shame about today because I started quite well. I was there, having a good race, and I think I could have had a decent result' - Valentino Rossi

Valentino Rossi's chances of a top six finish in today's Dutch TT at Assen were thwarted after the Italian superstar was forced to make a tyre change.

Rossi had been battling for sixth position with his works Ducati team-mate Nicky Hayden, but had to return to his garage after developing a terminal issue with his rear Bridgestone.

Other riders, including Yamaha's Ben Spies, also suffered major rear tyre issues - Spies saying that 'chunks' came out.

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