Max Verstappen's Home Dutch Grand Prix To Exit Formula One Calendar After 2026 Season

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Formula One has announced that the Dutch Grand Prix will be removed from its calendar after the 2026 season. The Zandvoort circuit, which rejoined the schedule in 2021 following a 36-year hiatus, will host two more races before its departure. This decision is disappointing for Max Verstappen, who has been a dominant force at his home track.

The penultimate Dutch Grand Prix is set for August 29-31, 2025. Verstappen secured victories in the first three races after Zandvoort's return, while McLaren's Lando Norris claimed victory this year. Jim Clark holds the record with four wins at this venue, while Verstappen shares three wins with Jackie Stewart and Niki Lauda.

Stefano Domenicali, F1's president and CEO, expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Dutch Grand Prix team. He stated: "I am incredibly grateful for the work that the team at the Dutch Grand Prix have done in recent years." Discussions included options like alternating or annual events before deciding to conclude in 2026.

Robert van Overdijk, Director of the Dutch Grand Prix, explained their decision: "We are a privately owned and operated business, and we must balance the opportunities presented by continuing to host the event, against other risks and responsibilities." They aim to conclude with two memorable races in 2025 and 2026.

The current F1 calendar features a record-breaking 24 races. Domenicali has mentioned that some European races might alternate to accommodate new entries. The Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, Belgium's Spa race, and Italy's Imola are potential candidates for rotation starting in 2026.

Formula One is also exploring expansion into Africa. Discussions are underway with Rwanda about hosting an event near Kigali. This move aligns with F1's strategy to broaden its global presence by introducing new locations into its racing calendar.

The decision to end the Dutch Grand Prix after 2026 reflects strategic considerations within Formula One. While it marks an end for Zandvoort on the calendar, it opens doors for new opportunities as F1 continues to evolve globally.