The Dutch Grand Prix could come to an end in 2025

As we slowly move towards the end of the 2024 season, the grid is gradually approaching the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. Max Verstappen’s favorite circuit, the possibility that this Grand Prix will definitely be the last in 2025 is increasing day by day.

The officials of the circuit including Robert van Overdijk, director, still hope to obtain a possible extension as not all seems lost for the circuit.

A possible end that could soon come.

One of the main challenges for the Zandvoort circuit lies in the finances allocated to the organization of this race. The circuit, which pays around 30 million euros per year in expenses to host the Grand Prix, is seeking to negotiate an agreement that will be more financially suitable for the continuation of the race. The increase in VAT and the projects wishing to take place in the region constitute a dangerous environment for the circuit, which is trying to maintain its place on the calendar.

One peculiar feature of Zandvoort is that the government does not provide financial or commercial support for the Dutch Grand Prix. This adds extra pressure on the director, who must convince fans to attend the Grand Prix. It is undeniable that the Netherlands has benefited from Max Verstappen’s popularity in recent years, as he has been the reigning champion since 2021. However, with an increasing number of races and ever more expensive tickets, Zandvoort no longer attracts as much attention as before.

According to Van Overdijk, the circuit manager, it seems that the end of the circuit is already partially agreed upon. If you ask factually, it is currently planned that in 2025 we will have the last race at Zandvoort. This does not mean that we will not continue to work hard in the coming months and to discuss with all kinds of parties and people, he told the media. But I do not expect there to be white smoke anytime soon. If all the pieces of the puzzle come together, we will remain very positive. It’s simply not guaranteed, he admits.

Do not lose hope for the moment

Robert Van Overdijk acknowledges that, according to current information, it seems that the end of the Grand Prix in Zandvoort is very close if they do not find an immediate solution. However, he also acknowledges that an extension is still being discussed. The real problems to be addressed are therefore financial in nature, but this is also compounded by increasingly strict regulations for circuits.

The Dutch Grand Prix undoubtedly benefits from the growing popularity of Max Verstappen, which contributes to its appeal. However, the increase in the number of races and the entry of new Grand Prix events in lucrative locations, such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar, put additional pressure on traditional events like Zandvoort.

One of the solutions proposed to allow Zandvoort to remain on the calendar would be to implement a bi-annual rotation. Already done in the past with the Nürburgring, this would involve having the Zandvoort circuit on the calendar every other year, alternating with another circuit each year. This would both reduce costs and establish a contract over several years.

For the moment, the circuit under consideration is Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium. There would be a year in Zandvoort and the following year in Spa-Francorchamps. However, despite the idea being ideal, Spa-Francorchamps remains determined to keep its annual place on the calendar, so it does not seem to be an option at the moment.

Nevertheless, negotiations are continuing with FOM (Formula One Management) to try to find a solution. It is still possible that both parties will reach an agreement to keep the race on the calendar beyond 2025.