Zandvoort promoter explains decision to end Dutch GP on a high
The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort will leave the Formula 1 calendar after 2026, despite five years of sold-out crowds and a party atmosphere. Promoter Robert van Overdijk said the decision was purely business, citing the high costs and risks of hosting a modern F1 race. He compared the move to an athlete retiring at the peak of their career.
The Dutch GP's funding model sets it apart from many races. With a roughly €70 million operating budget and no direct state subsidies, the three partner companies absorb all financial exposure themselves. Government support criteria favored one-off championships rather than annual events, leaving the race outside typical public funding channels.
The event's identity has been shaped by its seaside location and the Verstappen phenomenon. Fans have traditionally arrived by train or bicycle, contributing to the distinctive atmosphere that F1 leadership praised for its sustainability innovations. The promoter's decision to exit while demand remains high mirrors a deliberate strategy to preserve the event's legacy.
The departure could affect the local economy around Zandvoort, which has benefited from five years of packed grandstands. It may also signal to other