End of Formula 1 in the Netherlands: ‘Verstappen thinks it’s a shame’

The Zandvoort Grand Prix will be held for the last time for the foreseeable future this weekend. The race returned in 2021 and was won three times by Max Verstappen. Readers hope for a comeback, but Formula 1 reporter Patrick Moeke isn’t counting on it.

Why is the Formula 1 race in Zandvoort stopping now? “The organizers are choosing certainty and consciously stopping on a high note. Unlike almost all other Grands Prix, the race in Zandvoort is organized without subsidies or other government funding. As a result, the organization is heavily dependent on ticket sales.” “If the grandstands become less filled, financial problems can quickly arise. The organization doesn’t want to wait until Max Verstappen retires or interest drops for another reason, and has therefore decided to stop after this year.”

What are the chances of an F1 race ever being held in the Netherlands again?

“Circuit Zandvoort will hold a so-called Grade 1 license for the next three years. This is a type of certificate indicating that the track is suitable for Formula 1. Teams will likely continue testing there over the coming years, but a Grand Prix appears to be ruled out for the time being.”

“With numerous other races in Europe, Formula 1 has little reason to return to the Netherlands, especially if Verstappen retires one day. Just look at Germany, which, despite being a car-crazy country, also fails to organize a Grand Prix. You never know what the future holds, but in principle, this weekend’s edition is truly the last Dutch Grand Prix.”

Source Nu.nl