Zandvoort on the brink of Formula 1 exit: GP star David Coulthard speaks plainly

When it became clear that Formula 1 was returning to Zandvoort after a 36-year hiatus, David Coulthard really went for it: alongside local hero Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo, the Scot took part in a demonstration run on the historic Dutch circuit, in front of packed grandstands.

Now, for Zandvoort, the final chapter has begun. From 2026 onwards, Formula 1 will no longer be visiting the dunes by the North Sea. On the ‘Up to Speed’ podcast, 13-time Grand Prix winner Coulthard expressed his deep regret at this.

The 2001 World Championship runner-up says: “The way I see it – when you consider how this Grand Prix came about, it’s clear that the King of the Netherlands is a motorsport fan. He was instrumental in bringing this traditional Grand Prix back in the wake of Max Verstappen’s success, and they were limited in what they could do with their circuit.”

“They’re surrounded by a nature reserve – the sand dunes; they can’t expand as they need to, so they can’t grow, and of course Formula 1 continues to strive to increase revenue from commercial rights.”

“So I believe the Dutch have simply reached a point where it is no longer economically viable for them to carry on as before. And for Formula 1, there are other venues. Venues that will build state-of-the-art racing circuits.”

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“I think Zandvoort is a brilliant little circuit. My first international victory as a young driver in Formula 3 took place there, and they’ve set up one of the best paddock clubs near the first corner; from there, spectators can see practically the whole of the first corner.”

Coulthard was blunt: “So there’s a lot to be grateful for at Zandvoort and much to praise the organisers for, but we must acknowledge that this chapter is now coming to an end, and I don’t think we’ll ever return here with Formula 1 again. So let’s cherish the memories of this time.”