Circuit Zandvoort chiefs issue statement as storm causes floods weeks before F1 Dutch GP
Circuit Zandvoort chiefs have moved to ease fears over suspected damage to the track just weeks before the Dutch Grand Prix. That's after concerned Formula 1 fans shared images of part of the circuit covered in water and mud after storms in the area this week.
One particularly worrying photo taken at the final corner of the coastal track showed a channel of water crossing the circuit. It initially appeared as though the current might have caused some damage to the asphalt, while there was also a significant amount of mud on and near to the track.
But circuit bosses have eased concerns over the state of the venue just weeks out from the visit of the F1 circus. "Yesterday's heavy rain sparked some fake news about damage to the circuit," a statement read.
"Early this morning our team inspected the entire layout and found no damage, no delays. The surface is dry, clean, and 100 percent race-ready. In fact, since this morning, the F1 Academy has been out on track for their scheduled practice sessions without any issues. All sessions are running exactly as planned. See you at the circuit!"
As alluded to in that statement, F1 Academy was scheduled this week to take part in testing at the Dutch circuit. And livestream cameras accessible through the venue's website showed that cars were able to head out on track as planned on Tuesday.
The good news will be a relief to the promoter of the Dutch Grand Prix which is in the midst of organising the final touches of what is set to be the penultimate F1 event at the historic circuit. It was announced late last year that Zandvoort will drop off the sport's annual even calendar after the 2026 season.
That was a decision, F1 said, taken by the promoters themselves rather than an enforced departure. Robert van Overdijk, director of the Dutch Grand Prix, said of the call: "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 [F1 chief executive] 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."
It means Max Verstappen will no longer have a home race to look forward to each year after the 2026 campaign. Reacting to the news of its impending exit, the Dutchman said he was "sad" about its disappearance but "proud of what they have done".
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