The Dutch Grand Prix will bid farewell to the Formula 1 calendar following the 2026 season.
A one-year contract extension has been secured, ensuring two more events at the Zandvoort circuit, which returned to F1 in 2021 after a 36-year hiatus.
Despite its popularity, including sell-out crowds cheering for Dutch star Max Verstappen, financial challenges have made the race difficult to sustain.
Verstappen dominated the first three races at the venue, while McLaren’s Lando Norris claimed victory this year.
Dutch Grand Prix director Robert Van Overdijk explained the reasoning behind the 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.
“We have decided to go out on a high with two more incredible Dutch Grands Prix in 2025 and 2026. We wanted to take this step while our event is adored and supported by passionate fans, residents, and the Formula 1 community.”
The 2025 race is set for 29-31 August, while the 2026 event will feature a sprint race on Saturday, followed by the main event on Sunday.
BREAKING: Dutch Grand Prix has been extended to 2026
After much consideration and discussion, the decision has been taken by the promoter not to remain on the calendar after 2026#F1 pic.twitter.com/vXoTdkZgl0
— Formula 1 (@F1) DECEMBER 4, 2024
F1 president Stefano Domenicali commended the Dutch Grand Prix for its contributions to the sport, stating: “The Dutch Grand Prix has raised the bar for European Grands Prix in terms of event spectacle and entertainment, supported the development of young talent by hosting F2, F3, and our F1 Academy series, and have also pioneered sustainable solutions that have inspired our events around the world as we drive towards being net zero by 2030.
“All parties positively collaborated to find a solution to extend the race, with many options, including alternation or annual events on the table, and we respect the decision from the promoter to finish its amazing run in 2026.”
The removal of the Dutch Grand Prix alleviates some of the scheduling pressures Formula 1 faces as it seeks to balance established European races with expansion into new markets.
There have been discussions about rotating certain European events to make room for new additions, but circuits like Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium are pushing to maintain annual races.
Formula 1 has its sights set on expanding into Africa, with ongoing talks about a potential event near Kigali, Rwanda.
Additionally, Madrid will join the calendar in 2026, replacing Barcelona as the host of the Spanish Grand Prix, although discussions are still ongoing about Barcelona retaining a place on the schedule.
