The head of the Formula 1 track at Zandvoort, Robert van Overdijk, has delivered unsettling news concerning the future of the beloved Dutch GP.
Van Overdijk expressed that without significant changes, the event could face discontinuation after its current contract expires in 2025.
"At the moment," he acknowledged in an interview with Viaplay, "the risks are too great, but of course we are doing everything we can to see if a race after 2025 is still possible.
"It is clear that the situation is precarious," van Overdijk added.
He clarified that the issue does not stem from the "relationship with Formula 1," which remains "still fantastic."
"But I hope that everyone in the Netherlands also realizes that organizing such a major event in our country is not a given.
We have succeeded in recent years thanks to a number of parties who dared to stick their necks out."
The primary concern is financial. Notably, there is a looming threat that the tax on ticket sales could increase from 9 to 21 percent, as reported by De Telegraaf.
"If you ask for facts," van Overdijk confirmed, "it is currently the case that we will have the last race next year."
He tempered expectations for an imminent resolution: "I do not expect any white smoke to be seen soon," he stated. "We really need time for that.
We have to do a market inventory of what the interest is among the fans and the business community, governments and the entire economic environment around it must remain such that the risk is bearable."
Despite these challenges, the 2024 Dutch GP is on track to sell out once again right after the summer break.
"But we also want that commitment for the longer term before we extend the contract," said van Overdijk.
"That doesn't mean we won't continue to work hard in the coming months.
But there is not only one reason why we might not have a grand prix at Zandvoort after 2025." body check tags ::
