Dutch Grand Prix to drop off F1 schedule after 2026

• Zandvoort rejoined F1 calendar in 2021, the first race since 1985
• F1 looking at more global schedule, with Thailand and Rwanda linked

The Dutch Grand Prix will depart the Formula One schedule following the 2026 season after organisers agreed a one-year extension with the series.

Circuit Zandvoort’s departure will be marked by a sprint weekend in 2026 as Formula One bids farewell to a fan-favourite event.

The track made a return to Formula One in 2021 having not hosted the series since 1985. The fervent support for local hero Max Verstappen has made the race one of the features of the calendar in recent years.

Despite this, the circuit’s promoter has opted against continuing to host Formula One beyond the 2026 season.

“I am incredibly grateful for the work that the team at the Dutch Grand Prix have done in recent years,” said Stefano Domenicali, president and chief executive of Formula One.

“They raised the bar for European Grands Prix in terms of event spectacle and entertainment, supported the development of young talent by hosting F2, F3 and our F1 Academy series, and have also pioneered sustainable solutions that have inspired our events around the world as we drive towards being Net Zero by 2030.

“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 One.”

The penultimate Dutch Grand Prix takes place from 29th to 31st August 2025. The dates for the final event will be announced next year.

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Domenicali revealed last month there would be imminent news on rotational Grands Prix in Europe. However, that plan had its challenges given the hefty financial impact on the applicable tracks.

Zandvoort would’ve been offered a rotational slot, potentially with Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium – another track perennially linked with an exit. It is highly unlikely that Zandvoort’s circuit promoter would’ve said no to a deal that allowed it to continue as an annual event, especially while Verstappen is on the grid.

Ultimately, this could be good news for Spa as it now has less competition for a spot during the European leg of the season. But the circuit’s future will depend on Formula One’s plans for global expansion, with Thailand and Rwanda reportedly interested in joining the schedule.