F1 Dutch Grand Prix dies after 2026

• The Dutch Grand Prix will be dropped from the F1 calendar after 2026
• The decision was made by the race promoter
• F1 organizers continue to look for new locations and are keen to add an African race

The Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix at the historic Circuit Zandvoort returned to the calendar in 2021 after a 36-year hiatus. Now it’s about to disappear once more.

The race promoter has confirmed that 2026 will be the final year the hugely popular Dutch Grand Prix is held.

“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,” Robert van Overdijk, the Dutch Grand Prix’s director, said in a statement.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, in a separate statement, said various options to keep the race on the calendar beyond 2026 were discussed, including potentially alternating biennially with another race, though ultimately no solution could be found.

The current contract for the Dutch Grand Prix lasts until 2025, but a one-year extension to host the 2026 race was agreed upon between the race promoter and F1 organizers.

F1 organizers are keen to add races in new locations, but the 2024 calendar is already jam-packed with a record 24 races, meaning other traditional locations may disappear in the future or alternate with other races.

The Spanish Grand Prix is set to leave Barcelona in 2026 and move to Madrid, though talks are taking place about retaining a race in Barcelona. F1 is also looking to expand into Africa and is holding talks with Rwanda about a race close to the capital, Kigali.

The Dutch Grand Prix is the home race for current champion Max Verstappen and proved to be an immediate hit with fans upon its return, not least because of the tricky nature of Circuit Zandvoort. The circuit, nestled within the sand dunes of the North Sea coast, is popular for its significant changes in altitude and banked corners, which all add to the theater.

“We have decided to go out on a high with two more incredible Dutch Grands Prix in 2025 and 2026,” van Overdijk said. “We wanted to take this step while our event is adored and supported by passionate fans, residents, and the Formula 1 community.”