Max Verstappen, the driver for the Red Bull team, expressed a mix of sadness and pride regarding the Dutch Grand Prix’s removal from the Formula 1 calendar after 2026. According to Reuters, Verstappen, a four-time world champion, has won all but one of the races he participated in at Zandvoort since the track’s return to the Formula 1 calendar in 2021, where he enjoys massive support from fans in his home country.
Before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which is the season finale, Verstappen told the media, “I am definitely sad that it’s not continuing. But on the other hand, I am extremely proud of what the race has achieved.” He added, “When I first started in Formula 1, I never imagined we would return to Zandvoort. But I have a huge amount of respect for the races held there and the events organized, and I am proud that I played a part in that as well. Seeing all those fans there was and still is amazing, of course.”
Formula 1 announced on Wednesday that the race would be extended by one more year, until 2026, and the Dutch Grand Prix will feature a sprint race for the first time. Verstappen said, “I’m really looking forward to the last two years. They say the two races will be very exciting; I’m really excited to see that.”
