The end for Max Verstappen’s home race at Zandvoort: why is the traditional Grand Prix coming to an end?

Following the summer break, Formula 1 is back in action with the Dutch Grand Prix. What is, for the time being, the last Formula 1 race at the historic Zandvoort circuit will be run in sprint format.

In recent years, Formula 1 fans have lost one traditional circuit after another: Racing has not taken place at Hockenheim or the Nürburgring (Germany), or at Magny-Cours or Le Castellet (France) for years; Imola is now only considered as a reserve venue, whilst Spa and Barcelona are switching to a rotation system.

Since its return in 2021 after a 36-year hiatus, Zandvoort has repeatedly thrilled visitors with first-class organisation, a fantastic atmosphere and packed grandstands. So why is the 2026 edition to be the last?

The two main reasons for the cancellation: two years ago, the Dutch were unable to come to terms with the proposal for a rotation system between the race at Zandvoort and the one at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium. And an increase in VAT on event tickets made it increasingly difficult for the organisers to stage the Formula 1 race on a break-even basis.

The World Championship round had returned in 2021 following a hiatus since 1985 and quickly became a benchmark for a relaxed, party atmosphere at a racetrack. Thanks to Max Verstappen, the Grand Prix took place in front of packed stands every time.

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Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the organisers, saying: “I am very grateful to the organisers of the Dutch Grand Prix for their exemplary work. They have raised the bar for all European organisers in terms of spectacle and the entertainment programme.”

“We tried to find a solution together, and one option considered was to hold the race only every two years. We respect the promoter’s decision to stop after the 2026 edition.”

Robert van Overdijk, director of the World Championship race: “We have, without a doubt, written a success story. But we are a privately funded race, and we had to carefully weigh up the risks and responsibilities. For this reason, we have decided to stop in 2026.”