The Zandvoort circuit can thrive even after the Dutch Grand Prix's departure from the Formula 1 calendar following the 2026 season, according to its designer.
The decision to end Zandvoort's Formula 1 run was driven entirely by financial considerations, particularly the lack of government support. Even Max Verstappen joked that he wouldn't step in to save the race financially.
"I do have it," Verstappen laughed when asked about the missing €20 million, "but I'm not going to spend it on a race."
Zandvoort underwent significant upgrades to accommodate Formula 1's return, including the addition of the circuit's iconic heavily banked corners. Italian circuit designer Jarno Zaffelli, whose company Dromo led the project, believes the track doesn't depend on Formula 1 to stay viable.
"The circuit does not need Formula 1 to survive," Zaffelli told NOS.
He also revealed a behind-the-scenes anecdote about the upgrades. "The asphalt had to be moved a bit to create space for the paddock, which was a requirement of Formula 1," Zaffelli said.
"The circuit management just didn't tell the prince," he added with a laugh, referring to Prince Bernhard of Orange-Nassau, who was involved in funding the project. "In all their enthusiasm, they forgot to tell him, I think. But he took it well."
Zaffelli, now focused on designing the all-new Madrid Grand Prix circuit for its 2026 debut, noted that the scale of the Madrid project far surpasses what was done at Zandvoort.
"This is a completely new circuit with a new organisation, involving a lot more money than at Zandvoort," he explained. "Zandvoort was finished after four winter months—here in Madrid, it will take more than a year."
The decision to end Zandvoort's F1 chapter was influenced by concerns about waning interest as the novelty wore off and uncertainty surrounding Verstappen's career beyond 2026.
"I'm most proud of the first year," Zaffelli said. "All those fans, all that orange smoke. I think you could see the smoke from space.
"Promoters in Las Vegas, Qatar, Mexico, and Silverstone all implemented changes to their own events based on what they saw there."
Despite the looming end of its F1 era, Zandvoort has two more races to look forward to, and Zaffelli views the extension as a significant achievement.
"What sticks in my mind most after this news is that they managed to add a year to the contract," he said. "For a small, cosy circuit, adapted to Formula 1 standards, that's a huge achievement."
Meanwhile, the Austrian GP at the Red Bull Ring is expecting to become Verstappen's unofficial and exclusive new home race.
"The Red Bull Ring will be Max's only home now," said Michael Ranzmaier-Hausleitner of Spielberg's tourism agency, which is involved in promoting the Austrian GP.
