The Dutch Grand Prix has been a commercial triumph since its comeback to Formula 1 in 2021 as the home race of Max Verstappen.
Max Verstappen, Max Verstappen emerges victorious in the Dutch Grand Prix (images via IMAGO)
After a significant hiatus of 36 years, the Dutch Grand Prix returned to the Formula 1 calendar in 2021. The presence of the beloved local hero, Max Verstappen, played a pivotal role in bringing the sport back to the Netherlands. With three consecutive wins at the Zandvoort circuit, Verstappen has become a fan-favorite. However, the future of this highly anticipated race is now uncertain.
The contract between Zandvoort and Formula 1, which allows the circuit to host the Dutch Grand Prix, is set to expire in 2025. Despite ongoing negotiations, a new agreement has not been reached yet. In order to secure its place on the calendar, the circuit will need to undergo modernization, as demanded by the sport. The main obstacle in the renewal of Verstappen’s home race is the narrow pitlane.
The tight pitlane has posed challenges in the past, but efforts to expand the Zandvoort circuit have been underway. The circuit manager, Robert van Overdijk, recently stated that the Formula One Management (FOM) and the FIA have made it clear that the Dutch Grand Prix will only continue if this issue is resolved.
FOM and FIA have explicitly stated that the problem must be solved if we wish to remain on the calendar.
In recent years, Formula 1 has experienced rapid expansion, with an increased number of races in the Middle East. Lucrative long-term agreements have been signed for events in the and the . Unlike these “oil states,” the Netherlands does not have the same bargaining power to negotiate significant deals with the sport, according to Van Overdijk.
Van Overdijk, the manager of the Zandvoort circuit, mentioned that it will likely take a few more months for both parties to reach an agreement for the renewal. However, he emphasized that Formula 1 is keen on continuing the race. The past three editions of the Dutch Grand Prix have been sold out, thanks to Max Verstappen’s immense popularity.
The Dutch Grand Prix remains one of the most profitable races in Europe for Formula 1. The stands are filled with Verstappen’s orange army, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Once the pitlane is extended, there should be no further delays in renewing the race. Undoubtedly, Dutch fans will continue to flock to Zandvoort to witness their local hero in action for years to come.