What is the biggest circuit in MotoGP? In 75 years of history, our championship has gone through countless tracks, each one as incredible as the next. But if you had to choose just one, then which one would it be? Today, I give my opinion on this thorny question. And even if Assen is not, personally, my favorite circuit, I can only bow to its greatness.
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. 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 twenty kilometers before its renovation in 1955, increasing to seven 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. Rivals
Umberto Masetti/Geoff Duke in the 1950s, to the modern champions that are
Valentino Rossi, Marc Márquez and Pecco Bagnaiathrough Jorge Lorenzo. All, at least once in their category, triumphed in the cathedral, an evocative nickname betraying the legend.
Hartog's victory in 1977 was a completely historic moment. Photo: ANEFO
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 trip a day before.
Moreover, we can regret that this tradition has not survived, mbut 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 class on a machine built… by a group of friends. Since then, other premises have emerged, notably Will Hartog and Jack Middelburg in 500cc, in 1977 and 1980. The latest is none other than Hans Spaan in the 125cc category, in 1989. Last year, Collin Veijer did not come far from joining his elders,
but Ivan Ortola gave him the song in the last corner.
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 mention them all. Let's come back to this famous 1992 Grand Prix: Wayne Rainey was not in the game due to 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 of the race, won by the hero Valentino Rossi, who then signed his first victory since 2010. Arriving in fifth place, the no less heroic Jorge Lorenzo crossed the line in tears, after having broken his collarbone three days before. An unforgettable moment.
- It must be recognized that for several years, Pecco Bagnaia has been particularly comfortable, which does not encourage battles. Photo: Michelin Motorsport
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, in the lead in the last turn 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 grandstand, 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 a sport.
Which would you have chosen? More like Mugello, Bugatti, Misano, Phillip Island? Tell me in comments!
It took a pandemic to prevent MotoGP from going to Assen. Apart from 2020, he has never missed the calendar.
Cover photo: Michelin Motorsport
