Zandvoort will host its final Formula 1 race this weekend, as its promoter has opted not to renew the event after 2026.
Zandvoort’s final lap in Formula 1
Former Red Bull driver David Coul thard announced on the Up To Speed podcast that the circuit’s location “surrounded by a natural park, the sand dunes; it can’t expand, it can’t grow,” limits future development.
He added that Formula 1 continues to seek higher revenue from commercial rights, making the current arrangement “not commercially viable” for the venue.
Coul thard weighs commercial and physical restraints
Coul thard noted the Dutch prince and his partner were pivotal in re‑introducing the Grand Prix in 2021 after a 35‑year absence, capitalising on Max Verstappen’s success.
Although he praised the track’s layout, he said “Zandvoort is a brilliant little racetrack. I actually think it will never again host Formula 1.”
The former driver explained that the paddock club offers an uncommon view: “You can see the whole first corner when you sit up there.”
The future of Dutch racing beyond 2026
Coul thard pointed out that “there are other places. Rwanda and others that want to join the Formula 1 family,” likely with state‑of‑the‑art facilities.
He concluded, “So there are a lot of things for which we need to say thank you and well done to Zandvoort, but the journey has come to its end.”
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