F1 Rotational Debate Looms; Dutch GP Awaits Clarity

Dutch GP’s fate hangs as F1 mulls rotational races post-2025.

Robert van Overdijk, head of the Dutch Grand Prix, acknowledges that a new rotational system for certain European Grand Prix could be applied to the popular Zandvoort race.

Just before Formula 1’s summer break, the circuit chief refuted reports suggesting that an agreement to alternate the Zandvoort and Spa-Francorchamps races annually starting from 2026 had been reached.

Zandvoort’s contract with F1 owner Liberty Media expires after next year’s edition.

“At the moment,” he told Viaplay, “the financial risks of concluding a new contract are too great, but of course we are doing everything we can to see if a race post-2025 is still feasible.”

“It is clear that the situation is precarious.”

However, van Overdijk had previously denied that a rotational agreement had been reached.

He now admits: “We know that FOM (Formula One Management) wants to reduce the number of races in Europe. There’s talk of a rotational system for some races. But no one knows exactly how all this will work out.”

“We have a contract until 2025 inclusive, but it is not certain at the moment that we will remain on the schedule beyond.”

Jan Lammers, sporting director of the Dutch GP and former F1 driver, also stated: “This decision is up to FOM. We are fully focused on the upcoming weekend.”

“It is still too early to say what will happen after 2025.”

It’s a situation both uncomfortable and ironic for the popular Dutch GP, given that several other F1 race promoters are flocking to Zandvoort this weekend.

The Dutch GP has emerged as an impressive model for others, leading the way with unique fan experiences and advancements in mobility and sustainability.

Promoters from Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Silverstone, Qatar, Austin, and notably, a delegation of over ten from Japan, will be present for this 2024 Dutch GP.

Dimitri Bonthuis, the Dutch GP’s sustainability officer, stated: “We are an event that receives no subsidies. We are always behind countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain. We will never win in this area.”

“That’s why we want to remain at the forefront and continue to set a good example in areas such as sustainability and entertainment.”

It should be noted that a few thousand tickets were still available at the start of the week, but they are expected to sell out quickly, according to the promoter.

The silver lining of this weekend’s event is that, despite the waning dominance of local hero Max Verstappen, the 2024 race is shaping up to be highly competitive.

“If you put the names of the top eight into a hat and pick three at random, that’s your podium, with perhaps the exception of Perez,” Lammers said.

“But tire strategies, a stuck wheel nut, a safety car at the wrong time—anything can happen.”