This means that the Grand Prix of the Netherlands will disappear. The organization of the Grand Prix says it wants to stop at the peak. This decision was taken after extensive negotiations with the FOM.
“There were several options to continue,” Dutch GP director Robert van Overdijk told NOS. “We could rotate with other circuits or continue to organize it ourselves every year. We have weighed everything carefully, and this is our choice. Maybe the F1 top is surprised, but they understand and respect it. They know how we work.”
Financial risks
According to Van Overdijk, the major financial risks play an important role in the decision. “A sold-out house three days in a row is necessary for us to operate profitably. That line is thin. A one-off dip is not that bad, but we cannot afford to structurally attract fewer visitors.”
Driver and analyst Tim Coronel reacts disappointed to the news. “I am still in disbelief,” he says on NH Radio. “But I think they have to stop. At a certain point it simply becomes no longer financially sustainable. If you look at how difficult it is made for the organization if the government does not cooperate, then unfortunately we have to put up with it.”
‘A real folk festival’
The first edition of the race took place in 1948 and was known as the Zandvoort Grand Prix. In 1952, the race was included in the official Formula 1 World Championship for the first time. Coronel emphasizes how much the race has meant to the village on the coast. “Not only in an economic sense, but also in terms of fun,” he says. “It has become a real popular festival.”
The exact date for the last Dutch Grand Prix at the Zandvoort circuit will be announced next year. Coronel is still looking forward to the coming editions with enthusiasm. “It’s only two weekends left, but let’s make it two good weekends.”