F1 Dutch Grand Prix dies after 2026

The F1 Dutch Grand Prix at the historic Circuit Zandvoort returned to the calendar after a 36-year hiatus in 2021. Now it is about to disappear again.

Race Promoters have confirmed that 2026 will be the last year in which the very popular Dutch Grand Prix will be held.

"We are a privately owned and operated business and we need to balance the opportunities presented by continuing to hold events with other risks and responsibilities," Robert van Overdijk, Director of the Dutch Grand Prix, said in a statement.

Stefano Domenicali, CEO of F1, said in a separate statement that various options were discussed to keep the race on the calendar after 2026.This has the potential to alternate with another race every 2 years, but ultimately I didn't find a solution.

The current contract for the Dutch Grand Prix will last until 2025, but a 2026 1-year extension to host the race was agreed between race Promoters and F1 organizers.

While F1 organizers are keen to add races at new locations, the 2024 calendar is already packed with a record 24 races, and other traditional locations may disappear or alternate with other races in the future.

The Spanish Grand Prix will leave Barcelona in 2026 and move to Madrid, but talks are under way about holding the race in Barcelona. F1 is also aiming to expand to Africa and is holding talks with Rwanda on a race close to the capital Kigali.

The Dutch Grand Prix is a home race for the current champion Max Verstappen and on its return proved to be an immediate hit to fans, especially due to the tricky nature of the circuit Zandvoort. Surrounded by dunes on the North Sea coast, this circuit is popular for its significant changes in altitude and bank corners, all adding to the theatre.

"We decided to go high in 2025 and 2026 with 2 more great Dutch Grand Prix," Van Overdijk said. "We wanted to take this step while our event is loved and supported by passionate fans, residents and the Formula 1 community."