Drivers unanimous: Zandvoort's disappearance a big loss for Formula 1

Friday, 21 August 2026 - 11:10

It’s not only Dutch Formula 1 fans who are saddened by this weekend being the last Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort. Drivers agree that Formula 1 is losing an exceptional track, NU.nl reports after the F1 media day on Thursday.

After Max Verstappen extending his contract with Red Bull, Zandvoort’s disappearance from the Formula 1 calendar was the main topic of discussion. The drivers praised the track's old-fashioned character, the challenging banked corners, and the unique spirit of the fans in the stands.

Formula 1 is losing a special place, “one of the best circuits on the calendar,” Verstappen told the media. “It is truly old-fashioned racing. Some tracks we race on nowadays - I won’t name names - lack character.”

The four-time World Champion doesn’t think he is biased because Zandvoort is his home race. “Even if I hadn’t been Dutch, I would have found this to be a fantastic circuit. The fact that it is my home race does make it extra special for me. In some places, the fans are also very close to the track, and that is very nice.”

Lando Norris praised the vibe in Zandvoort. “Although most fans are there for one driver, it is still always a fun event. There is a lot of passion, and that is what you want. I prefer going to smaller races where the fans are more enthusiastic, and the event is better.” He added: “This is absolutely one of the best locations.”

Several drivers mentioned that they would particularly miss qualifying in Zandvoort. Charles Leclerc said he enjoys qualifying in the dunes. “We love tracks with character, and Zandvoort is truly unique because of the banked corners. It is amazing to push the car to the limit here during a single lap. I will miss that challenge.”

According to Kimi Antonelli, it is tricky to string together a good lap in Zandvoort, but he enjoys the challenge. The Mercedes driver is hoping to end Zandvoort’s last Grand Prix with a win.

Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton is also eyeing the win. He has won 106 Grand Prixes, but never finished higher than second place in Zandvoort. “I have managed to win on almost all other circuits, so I want to change that.”

Sergio Pérez will not be competing for the win in his Cadillac, but he is looking forward to a fun race. “It is a great race that we all enjoy immensely, because of both the circuit and the atmosphere. From Friday onwards, it is one big party here.”

The drivers hope that the Dutch Grand Prix will eventually make another comeback, though circuit director Robert van Overdijk is less than optimistic. “You can never look into the future. But personally, I see no reason why Formula 1, barring calamities, will look to the Netherlands in the coming years,” he previously told NU.nl.

The drivers will take to the track for the first time on Friday at 12:30 p.m. for the first and only free practice session. The Dutch Grand Prix starts at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday.