Key takeaways
- Fond farewell: Max Verstappen lamented Zandvoort’s departure from the Formula 1 calendar after 2026, describing the Dutch venue as an old-school track full of character that drivers will deeply miss.
- Critique of new venues: The four-time World Champion highlighted Zandvoort’s unique, rewarding layout, contrasting it with several newer calendar additions that he feels “lack personality.”
- Renewed commitment: Fresh off announcing his contract extension with Red Bull through 2030, Verstappen aims to bring positive energy to his final home race in front of the Dutch fans.
Max Verstappen highlighted the emotional significance of this weekend’s event while expressing regret over the Dutch Grand Prix dropping off the Formula 1 schedule. According to the Red Bull driver, Zandvoort offers a far more rewarding driving experience than many of the newer destinations the sport has visited in recent years.
Following the announcement of his contract extension with Milton Keynes through 2030, the four-time World Champion turned his focus to competing against Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren. While Red Bull continues working to resolve balance and mechanical limitations on the RB22, Verstappen took time during a press conference attended by GRANDE PRÊMIO on Thursday (20) to praise the circuit where he achieved victory in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
“Seeing the fans is always very special. In some spots, they’re so close to the track, which makes it really cool. And beyond that, of course, just driving on this layout. It’s an awesome track,” Verstappen noted. “Knowing it’s the last race here, I want to keep the energy positive and just enjoy the weekend as much as possible. Plus, having the renewal news out there is very positive for the team and everyone overall.”
“The layout is great. It’s definitely very rewarding when you nail a lap. It’s an old-school driving experience — definitely one of the best tracks on the calendar, especially compared to some of the places we visit now that, without naming names, lack a bit of personality,” he emphasized.
“So it will definitely be missed. It has always been super fun to drive here. Even for drivers who aren’t Dutch, driving this track was always incredible. And being Dutch, obviously, makes it even more special,” Verstappen concluded.
Formula 1 returns this weekend, from August 21 to 23, for the Dutch Grand Prix — the 12th round of the 2026 season. 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 |
| Free Practice 2 | Friday, August 21 – 16:00 | 14:00 |
| Free Practice 3 | 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
- Free Practice 2: Friday, August 21 – 10:00 ET
- Free Practice 3: 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. How many times has Max Verstappen won the Dutch Grand Prix?
Max Verstappen has won the Dutch Grand Prix three times, taking victory in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
2. Why is Zandvoort leaving the Formula 1 calendar after 2026?
The Dutch Grand Prix is reaching the end of its current promotional contract, with F1 rotating host venues to accommodate new global events.
3. Until what year did Max Verstappen extend his contract with Red Bull Racing?
Max Verstappen signed a long-term contract extension keeping him with Red Bull Racing through the end of the 2030 season.
