The Formula 1 will no longer come to the Netherlands after 2026. The Dutch GP organization in Zandvoort confirmed on Wednesday that no new agreement has been reached with the FOM. Director Robert van Overdijk points to the lack of funding from the Dutch state, but also to the temporary success of Max Verstappen. The organization does not want to be dependent on one driver.
“There were several options on the table to continue,” Van Overdijk confirmed to the NOS. “We could rotate with other circuits, there were also possibilities to continue annually. We have made a lot of considerations, and this is the outcome. Ultimately, it is our choice. Perhaps the top of Formula 1 is surprised, but they certainly respect and understand us. They know how we have to work.”
With this, Van Overdijk hinted at the fact that the Dutch GP in Zandvoort does not receive support from the Dutch state. While other Grands Prix are often supported by local governments, the race in Zandvoort is privately funded. This makes the event all the more dependent on full stands with enthusiastic fans. “Three days in a row of a sold-out house is necessary for us to operate profitably,” Van Overdijk explained. “That line is thin. A one-time dip is not so bad, but we cannot afford to consistently attract fewer visitors.
The Max Verstappen Factor
The number of visitors is naturally influenced by Max Verstappen. In the Netherlands, there are many Formula 1 fans who are drawn to the success of the Dutch driver. “Max Verstappen has already won four world titles,” emphasized Van Overdijk. “Moreover, he has already won three times at Zandvoort. It is fitting for us to stop at the peak. We will not wait until interest declines and then pull the plug.”
For this reason, Van Overdijk did not want to wait for the end of Max Verstappen’s contract. “Then we would make ourselves completely dependent on what Max is going to do,” he explained. “Things could also turn out differently. Perhaps he will be driving for another team in 2026. Then it will be a truly special final edition,” he concluded. It remains to be seen whether Verstappen will fulfill his contract with Red Bull. The 27-year-old driver has a contract until 2028, but this year he has been frequently linked with a transfer. Moreover, he has repeatedly confirmed that he is increasingly considering retirement.
