It's no secret. Assen is one of the most anticipated meetings of each season, as the atmosphere is unique. Here, the angels of the past are heard, and the history is overwhelming. Focus on the TT Circuit Assen, on the calendar since the first edition of the Grand Prix world championship.
Since 1949, motorcycles have been plying the streets of the northern Netherlands in the same place. Located in Drenthe, the route extended over a distance of more than 20 kilometers before its renovation in 1955, increasing to 7 kilometers. Since then, it has evolved over the years to reach its current form after the changes of 2006.
Something is special with this circuit and this legendary race. First of all, the older ones won. From rivals Umberto Masetti, Geoff Duke in the 1950s, to modern champions Valentino Rossi and Marc Márquez, including Jorge Lorenzo. All of them, at least once in their category, have triumphed in the cathedral, an evocative nickname betraying the legend.
The old photos of the Assen circuit are absolutely magnificent and convey real emotion, bearing witness to a time gone by. Here the 1962 edition of the Grand Prix. Photo: Joop Van Bilsen
Legends were written during these wild Saturdays. Because yes, for those who have been following our wonderful discipline recently, know that the races took place on Saturdays until 2015! This 90-year-old tradition has religious origins: during the first races in the region, the authorities did not want spectators to find themselves stranded by wanting to pray in a place of worship not far away, hence the move one day Before.
Besides, we can regret that this tradition has not survived, but money is stronger than that. The races, too, were special. Like a Suzuka for the Japanese, it was common to see Dutch people at the start of the Dutch TT Assen, sometimes with success: in 1968, the late Paul Lodewijkx won the 50cc race on a machine built... by a group of friends. Since then, other locals have established themselves, notably Wil Hartog, and Jack Middelburg in 500cc, in 1977 and 1980. The latest is none other than Hans Spaan in the 125cc category, in 1989.
Assen is also special because of its races, as the spectacle is guaranteed. Alas, too many legendary editions have left their mark on history to list them all. Let's come back to this famous 1992 Grand Prix: Wayne Rainey was not in the race, due to an injury. Mick Doohan suffered the same fate after qualifying, falling in the most violent way. Eddie Lawson started from pole, favorite, but a collision between the two eliminated them from the race. Crivillé began a crazy comeback, just like John Kocinski. A crazy battle ensues for final victory.
More recently, how can we not mention the 2013 edition, won by the hero Valentino Rossi, who scored his first victory since 2010. Arriving in fifth place, the no less heroic Jorge Lorenzo crossed the line in tears, after having suffered a fracture the collarbone three days before. An unforgettable moment.
Wil Hartog's victory at Assen in 1977 is one of the great moments in the history of the championship. Cheered on by everyone including his teammates. The 'white giant' is a legend, as this striking photograph shows, where he seems to be a messiah among his colleagues. Photo: Koen Suyk
It's impossible not to mention the 2016 edition, marked by crazy weather which saw Jack Miller win his first Grand Prix and take a 'shoey' in front of a delirious crowd. We also remember the fall of Colin Edwards, leading in the last corner of the Dutch round in 2006, or the muscular explanation between “The Doctor” and Márquez in 2015.
So many decisive moments, which certainly made us get up from our seats. Assen is one of those circuits where emotions are guaranteed, whether you are in the “old school” style central stand, or in front of your television. The cathedral rarely disappoints like other legendary routes. Legends are made, myths are inscribed in memories. One thing is certain: no circuit in the world could replace part of the history of this sport.
Cover photo: Box Repsol
