End of an Era: Formula 1 Waves Goodbye to the Dutch Grand Prix
The Dutch Grand Prix will officially bow out of the Formula 1 calendar after its final race weekend at Zandvoort from 21–23 August 2026. This marks the end of a short but vibrant chapter in F1’s modern era, as confirmed with the release of the 2026 race schedule by Formula One Management.
Since its return in 2021, the Dutch GP quickly became one of the sport’s most atmospheric and well-attended events. The circuit’s seaside setting, combined with a passionate home crowd—most clad in a sea of orange in support of Max Verstappen—helped transform the race into a fan-favorite. Each year, the event has sold out, delivering a festival-like spectacle unique on the calendar.
However, the long-term future of the race has been in doubt since 2024, with organisers citing ongoing concerns about financial viability despite the event’s popularity. The infrastructure demands and rising costs of hosting an F1 race eventually proved too heavy a burden, even with consistent fan support.
The 2026 edition will follow the usual weekend format: free practice on Friday 21 August, qualifying on Saturday 22 August, and the final race on Sunday 23 August. It will be a bittersweet farewell for fans and teams alike, as Zandvoort prepares to host its final Formula 1 showdown.
As the curtain prepares to fall, the Dutch GP will aim to go out on a high—celebrating a remarkable run that brought color, energy, and national pride back to the sport.
