Dutch TT

The Dutch TT, also known as the TT Assen or Dutch Motorcycle Grand Prix, is an annual motorcycle road racing event held at the TT Circuit Assen in the Netherlands. Taking place on the last weekend of June, it is the oldest event on the MotoGP calendar and draws thousands of motorsport fans each year.

• Held annually at the TT Circuit Assen since 1949
• Known as the 'Cathedral of Speed'
• Oldest event on the MotoGP calendar
• Spectator attendance has topped 100,000 in recent years
• Traditionally held on the last weekend of June

What it is

The Dutch TT is a celebrated motorcycle racing event that has become a cornerstone of the MotoGP world championship. Held at the TT Circuit Assen, often called the 'Cathedral of Speed', it is known for its rich heritage and electric atmosphere. Riders and fans from across the globe gather to witness high-speed competition on a track famed for its technical challenges and history. For many, the Dutch TT is not just a race but a yearly tradition that brings together the passion and community of motorcycle sport.

Where it comes from

The Dutch TT began in 1925 after local laws were relaxed to allow motorsport racing on public roads. The first race was organized by the Assen & Omstreken motorcycle club and took place on a 28.4 km street circuit connecting nearby towns. Over the years, the course evolved, moving to a rectangular route and eventually to a permanent circuit in 1992. The event gained world championship status in 1949, becoming a fixture of the international MotoGP calendar and only pausing during World War II and in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

How it is celebrated

During the Dutch TT, the city of Assen comes alive with the sounds of engines and the excitement of fans. The main event is the MotoGP race, but the weekend is filled with practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and support races. Spectators fill the grandstands and grassy banks, many dressed in team colors and waving flags. The circuit is known for its festive atmosphere, with food stalls, merchandise stands, and live entertainment creating a lively backdrop. The event is a highlight for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering a chance to see top riders compete at high speeds on a historic track.

Joining in

Visitors to the Dutch TT can expect a vibrant and welcoming environment at the TT Circuit Assen. The main celebrations and races are held at the circuit, which is easily accessible from the city. Arriving early allows fans to explore the grounds, enjoy local food, and soak up the pre-race excitement. The event attracts a diverse crowd, from dedicated MotoGP followers to families and newcomers eager to experience the thrill of live racing in one of the sport's most iconic venues.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article Dutch TT, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• Dutch TT on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Official websiteOfficial site
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

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