The first race in Assen was held on public roads in 1925. The circuit cut through the communities of Borger, Schoonloo und Grolloo, and had a length of 28,4 kilometres. The winner was Piet van Wijngaarden, who rode a 500cc Norton at an average speed of 91,4 km/h. During subsequent years the layout changed until a permanent circuit replaced the street course in 1955.

The TT Circuit Assen is viewed as a motorcycle racing's Mecca, and has hosted a round of the world motorcycle world championship every year since 1949. The motorcycle grand prix is traditionally held on the last Saturday of June, with 100 000 fans annually packing the grandstands.