King Willem-Alexander visits Dutch GP in Assen

The current monarch of the Netherlands, King Willem-Alexander was a welcomed visitor to Motul Grand Prix of the Netherlands as the event celebrated one hundred years of the TT Circuit Assen.

As with so many FIM events, especially amongst the Dutch community, volunteer associations play an important role. The King clearly recognised this and took great joy in talking to the unknown and unsung heroes from behind the scenes.

“The good thing about today is to really see this event, it is nice to be able to celebrate one hundred years of TT Circuit Assen, and to be able to experience it. So, you can talk to the people who work hard for it, the volunteers, the hard workers, and visit the camping areas too. The races are fantastic although it is great to meet the people who make it possible.”

The King even shared some of his own motorcycling history during his visit, “I have ridden a 50cc, but I was so into speed when I was young that I don't think it would have been good for my health if I had been a motorcyclist!”

Jorge Viegas, FIM President, proudly explained: “It was a true and real honour to welcome King Willem-Alexander into our motorcycling family on this special occasion. His valued time and presence were appreciated by everyone from the riders through to the promoter Dorna, the TT Circuit Assen, the Dutch Motorcycling Federation and particularly by the fans and especially the volunteers whose work he really understood and appreciated. It was a very proud moment, both personally and on behalf of the FIM and motorcycle sport too.”