Key takeaways
- Driver’s track: Andrea Kimi Antonelli praised Circuit Zandvoort for its high technical demands, singling out Sector 2 and its wind sensitivity as a thrilling challenge in qualifying.
- Loss for F1: The Championship leader echoed Max Verstappen’s laments over Zandvoort leaving the calendar after 2026, stating that losing such a unique layout is a shame for the sport.
- Hope for return: Fresh off topping the sole practice session in his Mercedes, Antonelli expressed optimism that the Dutch venue might return to the F1 schedule in the future.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli expressed regret over Circuit Zandvoort dropping off the Formula 1 calendar following the 2026 season. The Mercedes driver highlighted the technical complexity of the Dutch venue, emphasizing that the circuit offers an exceptionally rewarding experience during qualifying runs.
Zandvoort returned to the F1 schedule in 2021 after a multi-decade absence, establishing a popular presence on the European leg. However, the venue will not feature on the race calendar from 2027 onward, bringing an end to a six-year consecutive stint.
For Antonelli, losing the venue represents a significant loss for drivers and fans alike. Speaking in a press conference attended by GRANDE PRÊMIO, the Italian outlined why the track stands out from a technical standpoint.
“Honestly, I think it’s a great track. From a driving perspective, especially in qualifying, it’s super fun. It’s a very technical circuit and not easy at all, especially when it comes to putting everything together into one complete lap,” Antonelli stated.
“Sector 2 is particularly tricky because the wind has a huge influence through those turns. So it’s definitely a shame to lose a track like this,” he added.
Despite Zandvoort’s imminent exit from the schedule, Antonelli remained hopeful that the venue could make a comeback in future calendar rotations.
“Who knows? Maybe it will come back in the future. From a pure driving standpoint, it’s definitely one of those tracks that gives you a lot of enjoyment,” Antonelli concluded.
Formula 1 action continues at Zandvoort with Sprint Qualifying for the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix. GRANDE PRÊMIO covers all the track action live from Zandvoort with reporter Leonid Kliuev. Follow all paddock updates on our news page.
Session schedule: Dutch Grand Prix 2026
| Session | Local time (CEST) | UTC |
| Free Practice 1 | Friday, August 21 – 12:30 | 10:30 |
| Sprint Qualifying | Friday, August 21 – 16:00 | 14:00 |
| Sprint Race | Saturday, August 22 – 11:30 | 09:30 |
| Qualifying | Saturday, August 22 – 15:00 | 13:00 |
| Race | Sunday, August 23 – 15:00 | 13:00 |
Broadcast guide: Where to watch in the United States
- United States (Eastern Time / ET)
- Broadcaster: Apple TV
- Free Practice 1: Friday, August 21 – 06:30 ET
- Sprint Qualifying: Friday, August 21 – 10:00 ET
- Sprint Race: Saturday, August 22 – 05:30 ET
- Qualifying: Saturday, August 22 – 09:00 ET
- Race: Sunday, August 23 – 09:00 ET
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. Why is Circuit Zandvoort leaving the Formula 1 calendar after 2026?
The contract extension for the Dutch Grand Prix expires at the end of the 2026 season, as F1 continues to rotate European events to accommodate new global host venues.
2. What makes Sector 2 at Zandvoort challenging according to Antonelli?
Antonelli noted that Sector 2 features sweeping, exposed corners where changing wind direction significantly alters aerodynamic balance and downforce levels.
3. Did Andrea Kimi Antonelli set the fastest time in FP1 at Zandvoort?
Yes, Antonelli set the fastest lap in sole practice with a 1:12.949 benchmark.
