The Dutch Grand Prix to Leave F1 Calendar After 2026

The Dutch Grand Prix will leave the Formula 1 calendar after 2026. Organizers have signed a one-year extension securing two more races at the Zandvoort circuit which returned in 2021 after a 36-year break. Despite sell-out crowds supporting Max Verstappen, the event has faced financial struggles. Red Bull’s Verstappen won the first three races at Zandvoort since its return while McLaren’s Lando Norris claimed victory this year.

Dutch Grand Prix director Robert van Overdijk explained that the privately owned event must balance hosting the race with financial risks. He added that they chose to end the event on a high note with two more Dutch Grands Prix in 2025 and 2026 while the event remains beloved by fans and the F1 community. The 2025 race will take place from August 29 to 31.

The 2026 event will feature a “sprint,” with a shorter race on Saturday and the main event on Sunday. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the Dutch Grand Prix for setting a high standard for European events, supporting young talent through F2, F3 and F1 Academy, and pioneering sustainable solutions. Domenicali respected the promoter’s decision to end the event in 2026 but acknowledged their positive collaboration that extended its run.

Removing the Dutch Grand Prix will ease F1’s fixture congestion in the coming years. F1 has discussed rotating some European races every other year to accommodate every country wanting a Grand Prix. F1 also plans to expand into Africa with ongoing talks for a race near Kigali in Rwanda. Madrid will debut on the calendar in 2026, taking over from Barcelona. Although there was consideration to rotate the Dutch and Belgian races, Belgium’s Spa-Francorchamps intends to continue hosting annually.