The Dutch Grand Prix organisers have confirmed that the decision to end Zandvoort's presence on the Formula 1 calendar after 2026 was entirely their own.
Robert van Overdijk, Zandvoort circuit boss, told NOS that while multiple options were available, including rotating with other circuits or continuing annually, the organisers decided to step back.
"We could have rotated with other circuits, and there were also possibilities to continue annually," he said. "We made a lot of considerations, and this is the outcome. Ultimately, it is our choice.
"Those in Formula 1 may be surprised, but they certainly respect and understand us. They know how we have to work."
Unlike other venues supported by local or federal governments, Zandvoort operates privately, bearing all financial risks. A decline in ticket sales, particularly if Max Verstappen retires after 2026, could jeopardise the event's profitability.
"Three days in a row of sold-out tickets is essential for us to be profitable," van Overdijk explained. "It's a thin line.
"A one-off dip is not so bad, but we cannot structurally afford to attract fewer visitors. Max has four world titles now, and he has also won three times at Zandvoort. So it suits us to stop at the peak.
"We are not going to wait until the interest decreases and then pull the plug. We are not going to make ourselves completely dependent on what Max is going to do."
Van Overdijk acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Verstappen's future, noting that the Red Bull star could change teams or even retire by 2026.
"Maybe he will drive for another team in 2026. Well, then it will be a very special final edition," he added.
Looking ahead, van Overdijk suggested that Formula 1 might replace Zandvoort with state-funded events, such as those in Qatar or Saudi Arabia.
"Of course we can see that happening," he said. "The world of Formula 1 has changed."
Van Overdijk firmly denied that the decision to announce Zandvoort's final race was a tactic to attract last-minute government support.
"No, we are not looking for crowdfunding or any other suggestions that may now come along. We are definitely stopping," he stated.
Max Verstappen's manager, Raymond Vermeulen, also commented on the announcement, expressing pride in what Zandvoort achieved.
"We are proud that Formula 1 found its way to Zandvoort, partly because of Max," Vermeulen said.
"It is well known that Zandvoort has a different financial model than many other races on the calendar. They have to make ends meet and they entered into this without government support.
"In many other countries, they think Formula 1 races are good for the economy, hence the government support they receive there. But we are now looking forward to two more great races in the Netherlands." body check tags ::
