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MEMORABLE MICK AT THE CATHEDRAL OF SPEED 🇳🇱

It’s that time of the year again. The MotoGP travels to the Netherlands, our home country, to race at TT Circuit Assen. Also known as the Cathedral of Speed. There have been quite some memorable moments at this fast flowing racing venue.

We go back to 1992, to the 26th of June to be exact. It was the last training on the day before the race at TT Assen. The untouchable Mick Doohan was the leader in the World Championship, and on his way to claim the title. Until disaster strikes. Mick crashes with his Honda NSR, just after passing the famous Haarbocht. It’s immediately clear that it was a nasty crash. But at that time, no one knew it would almost end his career.

He ended up breaking his leg at two places. Then, mistakes were made at the hospital. It got so serious, his leg got infected and amputating the leg became a serious option. Doctor Claudio Marcello Costa - the legendary Italian doctor who was heavily involved in emergency care at the GP events - heard about the plans. He decided to step in. He managed to save both Doohan’s failing health due to the situation, and his leg. After six weeks, Doohan was back on the bike.

He had to let go of the title that year. But things got better. He won the World Championship title in 1994, and would do so again over the next four years. In 1998, he won his last race at TT Assen, riding his Repsol Honda NSR500. With 5 consecutive premier-class World Championships on his name, and his iconic - and very recognizable - riding style, he still remains one of the most popular racers of all time. In terms of most successful Honda riders ever, he takes second place. Only Marc Marquez won more grand prix races and titles on a Honda.