Formula 1 has confirmed that the Dutch Grand Prix will no longer be part of the race calendar after 2026.

The popular event, held at Circuit Zandvoort, has drawn massive crowds since its return in 2021, thanks in large part to Max Verstappen’s success.

However, despite its popularity, negotiations between the race organizers and F1 have not led to a long-term deal, which means there will only be two more races at Zandvoort before the event ends.  

The Dutch GP returned to F1 after 36 years with an initial three-year contract from 2021 to 2023. Later, the deal was extended to include the 2024 and 2025 seasons. A final one-year extension now allows the race to take place in 2026, which will also be held in a sprint race format.

One of the key reasons for the event’s exit is financial difficulties. Circuit director Robert van Overdijk explained that a planned VAT increase on event tickets made things more challenging. Organizers had considered options like alternating the Dutch Grand Prix with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps to reduce costs, but this idea was ultimately rejected.

Since the track’s comeback on the F1 calendar in 2021, the event saw only two winners with home hero Max Verstappen winning the first three campaigns, however, Lando Norris managed to break his streak after dominating the 2024 campaign.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: “I am incredibly grateful for the work that the team at the Dutch Grand Prix have done in recent years.

“They raised the bar for European Grands Prix in terms of event spectacle and entertainment, supported the development of young talent by hosting F2, F3 and our F1 ACADEMY series, and have also pioneered sustainable solutions that have inspired our events around the world as we drive towards being Net Zero by 2030.

“All parties positively collaborated to find a solution to extend the race, with many options, including alternation or annual events on the table, and we respect the decision from the promoter to finish its amazing run in 2026.

“I want to thank all the team at the Dutch Grand Prix and the Municipality of Zandvoort who have been fantastic partners to Formula 1.”

Robert van Overdijk, Director of the Dutch Grand Prix, added: “The Dutch Grand Prix is the result of a unique collaboration between SportVibes, TIG Sports, and Circuit Zandvoort, who shared the ambition of bringing the race back to the Netherlands.

“What we have achieved so far is undoubtedly a huge success. The appreciation from our visitors, drivers, and teams has been unprecedented, and we are incredibly proud of that.

“While today’s announcement signals the end of a monumental era, we are confident there is plenty more for fans to look forward to at the Dutch Grand Prix in 2025 and 2026, including the Sprint in 2026.

“We are a privately owned and operated business, and we must balance the opportunities presented by continuing to host the event, against other risks and responsibilities.

“We have decided to go out on a high with two more incredible Dutch Grands Prix in 2025 and 2026.

“We wanted to take this step, while our event is adored and supported by passionate fans, residents, and the Formula 1 community. I want to thank Stefano Domenicali and all the team at Formula 1 for the hard work that has seen multiple contract extensions realised and the Dutch Grand Prix be such a success.”