Noo! The Dutch Grand Prix will tumble off the F1 calendar after 2026

Well this is dismal news: the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort will be held for the final time in 2026, after the local promoter decided not to keep it on the F1 calendar. Boo.

The circuit made a spectacular return in 2021 fuelled by Max Verstappen’s rise to stardom, and the local hero duly won the first three races held on Dutch soil since F1 last visited in 1985.

The twisty layout, banked sections and unforgiving gravel traps made it an instant hit with drivers and fans, with the sea of orange-clad fans in the grandstands providing an iconic backdrop for the race.

However, rumours about its future have been swirling for the last few months, with some suggestion that it could alternate with the Belgian Grand Prix, which is also reportedly struggling.

Alas, not even that. The organisers have agreed a one-year extension with F1, but after 2026 - which will include a Sprint race, apparently - the event will cease to exist altogether.

“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,” explained Robert van Overdijk, director of the Dutch GP. “We have decided to go out on a high with two more incredible Dutch Grands Prix in 2025 and 2026.

“We wanted to take this step, while our event is adored and supported by passionate fans, residents, and the Formula 1 community. I want to thank Stefano Domenicali and all the team at Formula 1 for the hard work that has seen multiple contract extensions realised and the Dutch Grand Prix be such a success.”

And F1 president and CEO Domenicali added: “All parties positively collaborated to find a solution to extend the race, with many options, including alternation or annual events on the table, and we respect the decision from the promoter to finish its amazing run in 2026. I want to thank all the team at the Dutch Grand Prix and the Municipality of Zandvoort who have been fantastic partners to Formula 1.”

Sigh. Oh well, no doubt F1 has another killer street circuit lined up to take its place…