In a landmark decision, Formula 1 has announced that the Dutch Grand Prix, hosted at the iconic Circuit Zandvoort, will conclude its modern chapter in 2026. This announcement, referring to a mere one-year extension on the existing contract, brings with it a bittersweet sentiment. With only two more events on the calendar, the Dutch GP’s legacy will soon be history. The uncertainty surrounding its future has persisted for quite some time, especially with the current contract set to expire following the 2025 race.
The prospect of a long-term arrangement had appeared dim, but the recent revelation from Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf confirmed that the Dutch Grand Prix organizers have managed to claw an additional year from Formula One Management (FOM). However, the clock is ticking, and fans can only look forward to two more seasons of exhilarating racing at Zandvoort before a historical finale.
The reintroduction of the Dutch GP in 2021, after a staggering 36-year hiatus, was heavily influenced by Max Verstappen’s meteoric rise to fame. Verstappen’s success breathed new life into the motorsport scene in the Netherlands, energizing fan enthusiasm and creating a compelling case for the race’s return. Initially, a three-year plan was set—a commitment that would stretch until 2023—but a subsequent two-year extension pushed its conclusion to 2025, and now, with the latest announcement, to 2026.
The symbiotic relationship between Verstappen and the Dutch Grand Prix has undeniably elevated the event’s profile. As a national hero, his presence has been a significant draw for fans, making the atmosphere at Zandvoort electric. Nevertheless, as negotiations unfolded over the past few months, it became clear that behind the scenes, logistical and financial hurdles were complicating efforts to secure a sustainable future for the race.
Director Robert van Overdijk cited funding dilemmas as a substantial roadblock during negotiations. Policies such as a potential VAT increase on event tickets further heightened these financial concerns, presenting a daunting challenge for race organizers. Various potential solutions were floated during discussions, including a proposed rotation system with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. Such a strategy could have offered more manageable financial pressure by alternating the two iconic events annually. However, Dutch GP organizers, wary of diluting their own event, eventually opted not to pursue this route.
The sentiment surrounding this decision is telling—Dutch motorsport officials have expressed a desire to preserve the event’s integrity rather than dilute its unique appeal through shared hosting with Spa. As a privately operated entity, they recognize the necessity of weighing fiscal responsibilities against the opportunities of hosting such a prestigious event.
In light of this decision, van Overdijk has conveyed optimism about the final two races. He stated, “We are confident there is plenty more for fans to look forward to at the Dutch Grand Prix in 2025 and 2026, including the Sprint in 2026.” This proactive approach anticipates a closing chapter filled with fervent support from fans, a gesture demonstrating gratitude towards the community that embraced the circuit with open arms.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali echoed these sentiments, recognizing the collaboration between all parties involved in nurturing the event. He acknowledged the significance and the profound impact of the Dutch Grand Prix’s return to the Formula 1 calendar. His gratitude towards the organizing team and the Municipality of Zandvoort underscores how this race has become a cherished part of the F1 tapestry.
The Dutch Grand Prix first graced the F1 calendar back in 1952 and remained a staple until its removal in 1985. Following its departure, the circuit continued hosting European-level events and other forms of motorsport, but efforts intensified in recent years, particularly following Verstappen’s rise, to restore Zandvoort to its former glory.
As the Dutch Grand Prix prepares to bid farewell by 2026, the legacy of this event will undoubtedly resonate in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts both in the Netherlands and around the world. For now, fans have two more chances to witness thrilling races in a location steeped in Formula 1 history, making the last laps at Zandvoort a fitting tribute to what has been a monumental era in Dutch motorsport.