Confirmation MX of Nations in Assen close!
After three years of organizing the Dutch GP at the TT Circuit of Assen, local promoter LDP International wants to put the crowning achievement with the MX of Nations. LDP International had already expressed this ambition before. Now, however, it looks like the MXON will return to the Netherlands for the first time since 2004 in Lierop!
The MX of Nations in 2019 in Assen, it is no longer a distant dream. According to the experienced Lee van Dam, director of LDP International, confirmation of an agreement with YouthStream is a matter of weeks. “We already discussed the possibility before 2018, but the government's decision did not come in time because we need a major investment,” says Van Dam. “For 2019, however, this looks good. We expect final approval in the next two to three weeks. The signals from the city of Assen, the local government and the government are positive. So we don't expect any problems.”
More than decent visitor numbers in Assen and its growing star status Jeffrey herlings, are important factors in the MXoN return to Dutch sand. “That's absolutely right,” says Lee. “Jeffrey's success certainly helps. It took some time to show people what motocross is and we expected larger spectator numbers sooner, but we do see business-to-business revenues getting better and better. There have also been many requests for the Nations. We think it's going to be a blast. “
The construction of the MXGP track in Assen has followed a similar pattern over the past three years. This will continue on September 15 and 16 this year during the last GP of the season. In particular, a large import of sand is required and also the construction at the level of the Gert Timmer chicane is not sincecure. In addition, half of the famous start-finish straight line and pit lane of the famous “Cathedral of speed” - the circuit's nickname among MotoGP fans - will also be covered with sand.
Rumors are circulating that the Nations circuit will involve changes compared to the MXGP races. Van Dam could not make a statement about this. “The request was to do it a little differently, but we don't have that many options in Assen,” he said, pointing to the paddock complex during the World Superbike Championship round last weekend. “We have to cross the buildings and the paddock because the straight is too long. But I think we need more sand and we will indeed change the track a bit.”
In September, Assen will equal Losail (Qatar)'s status as the longest-running MXGP venue on a permanent road racing property. The race took place in Qatar from 2013 to 2017. Previously, the Motocross World Championship visited Zolder, Donington Park, Franciacorta and Francorchamps. Lee Van Dam was involved with LDP international in almost all major events in Assen, including the Rizla and Gamma Racing days. So you can safely call him tried and tested in event and (motor) sports marketing.
“I think that motocross certainly has its place on a permanent circuit. To build a motocross track in such a place is actually a dream… And yet it has become reality,” said Van Dam. “We advertise a lot and we work hard on this event. In a way we think this is the future of motocross so you don't get stuck in the mud with your sponsors. Here we have everything in terms of accommodation. I think motocross would do well to seek out more such locations so that this fantastic form of motorsport can reach a wider audience. In Assen we are fortunate that there was already a whole network of sponsors and lodges. People didn't know how beautiful this sport is. Now they are very happy to experience it and they consider the motocross as one of the highlights on the calendar in Assen.
During the last two editions of the Motocross of Nations, the Dutch team finished second each time.
Tekst: Adam Wheeler
Photos: Ray Archer, Gatedrop, RTV Drenthe
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