Zandvoort to phase out Formula One after 2026 season

Circuit Zandvoort will phase out its Formula One presence after the 2026 season, with the Dutch Grand Prix at the coastal venue preparing a farewell that organizers say should be memorable but focused on practical realities. The promoter, which has funded the event without government subsidies, is already looking to fill the gap with other motorsport series, including prospects in NASCAR or IndyCar, and is exploring partnerships that can deliver top-level racing without the financial burden of Formula One.

The circuit’s general director, Robert van Overdijk, acknowledged that the decision to end the F1 partnership did not come lightly. He said the next year will likely reveal how emotionally charged the finale will feel, suggesting that the full sense of significance may only become clear with time. “I don’t think so yet. If you ask me this next year, I’ll say absolutely yes,” he said, noting the magnitude of the event for the Netherlands. He added that the closing chapters will likely carry a different kind of emotion than the series’ inaugural Dutch edition, underscoring how central the race has become to local fans.

Van Overdijk also conveyed why Formula One Management...