Max Verstappen announced that he is leaving, as he now encounters
Max Verstappen announced his departure as he now faces Max Verstappen’s home race is leaving F1, as the Dutch GP’s exit creates new opportunities.The leaders of Formula 1 have been investigating opportunities to introduce new events outside Europe, with considerable interest coming from various countries.
The exit of the Dutch Grand Prix creates room for these potential additions.Formula 1 officials have announced that the Dutch Grand Prix has been removed from the annual race calendar.Circuit Zandvoort, situated on the Dutch coast, returned to Formula 1 in 2021 following a 35-year hiatus. However, as announced this Wednesday, a new contract extension indicates what seems to be the last Dutch Grand Prix for the foreseeable future.The new agreement ensures that the event will be part of the 2026 calendar.
However, it has been confirmed by F1 that after that year, Max Verstappen will no longer have a home race due to a decision made by the event’s promoter.Robert van Overdijk, the Director of the Dutch GP, stated: “Today’s announcement signifies the end of an important chapter. Nonetheless, we are excited about what’s in store for fans at the Dutch Grand Prix in 2025 and 2026, with a Sprint event planned for 2026.
As an independently owned business, it is essential to balance opportunities from continued hosting against other risks and responsibilities.”We’ve decided to end on a high note with two more exceptional Dutch Grands Prix in 2025 and 2026. We made this choice while our event is still beloved and supported by enthusiastic fans, local residents, and the Formula 1 community.
As F1 officials consider expanding event locations outside Europe, the Zandvoort race faced potential scheduling adjustments. Earlier reports suggested it could alternate yearly with the Belgian Grand Prix on the calendar.
The exit of Zandvoort is anticipated to favor Spa-Francorchamps, a celebrated and historic track in Formula 1. Nevertheless, both Spa-Francorchamps and the Imola circuit—home of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix—have contracts that only extend through 2025 for their spots on the annual calendar. This raises the possibility that they might have to share a slot or face complete removal from future races.