Last updated: 24 September 2026
Short answer: the Dutch Grand Prix wasn’t cancelled. The privately owned organisers chose to stop after the 2026 race and go out on a high. The last Dutch Grand Prix took place at Circuit Zandvoort on 23 August 2026 and was won by Lando Norris. Formula 1 moves on to Portimão in Portugal for 2027, and Zandvoort gets Formula E instead.
For fans, it marks the end of a short but unforgettable era filled with orange-clad grandstands, dramatic racing in the dunes, and a festival atmosphere unlike any other on the F1 calendar.
Why is the Dutch Grand Prix ending?
The decision was announced on 4 December 2024, together with a one-year contract extension to 2026. Formula 1 actually wanted to keep the race, and options like alternating with another circuit were on the table. The organisers still decided to stop. These were the main reasons:
- It’s a private event. Unlike many F1 races, the Dutch Grand Prix is run by a private company without long-term government backing, so all the financial risk sits with the organisers.
- The risk no longer outweighed the benefits. Race director Robert van Overdijk was clear that it wasn’t about money running out (“We can still afford the event”). It was about whether the risks of hosting such a huge event were still worth it.
- Going out on a high. Every edition since 2021 sold out. Rather than wait for interest or finances to decline, the organisers chose to finish while the race was still at its peak.
- A crowded calendar. F1 keeps adding races in places with deep pockets, which puts pressure on traditional European venues to justify their spot.
How the last Dutch Grand Prix went
The final Dutch Grand Prix was held on Sunday 23 August 2026 as round 12 of the season, with a Sprint race at Zandvoort for the first time. Around 325,000 fans came over the weekend.
- Winner: Lando Norris (McLaren), from pole position, ahead of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell (both Mercedes).
- Heartbreak for the home crowd: Max Verstappen crashed on the opening lap at the banked final corner on a damp track, bringing out the red flag. He took the blame himself.
- A McLaren streak: it was McLaren’s third Dutch Grand Prix win in a row.
A short history of F1 at Zandvoort
The Dutch Grand Prix was held at Zandvoort between 1952 and 1985. After a 36-year absence, Formula 1 returned in 2021, driven by the rise of Max Verstappen and a wave of orange fans. The rebuilt track, with its steep banked corners in the dunes, quickly became a favourite with drivers and fans.
| Year | Winner |
|---|---|
| 2021 | Max Verstappen |
| 2022 | Max Verstappen |
| 2023 | Max Verstappen |
| 2024 | Lando Norris |
| 2025 | Oscar Piastri |
| 2026 | Lando Norris (final edition) |
What’s next for Circuit Zandvoort?
The circuit isn’t going anywhere. Formula E will race at Zandvoort from 2027 with its new GEN4 cars, and the track keeps hosting other racing and events throughout the year. You can even run on it yourself at the Zandvoort Circuit Run on 21 March 2027.
On the F1 calendar, the Algarve International Circuit in Portimão, Portugal, takes over the slot in 2027 and 2028.
Will F1 ever come back to Zandvoort?
Don’t count on it. The race director himself said he doesn’t expect the event to simply come back once it’s gone. Never say never in Formula 1, but for now, 2026 was the last lap.
FAQ
Is the Dutch Grand Prix cancelled?
Not cancelled, but ended. The organisers chose not to continue after 2026. The final race took place on 23 August 2026.
When was the last Dutch Grand Prix?
On Sunday 23 August 2026 at Circuit Zandvoort.
Who won the last Dutch Grand Prix?
Lando Norris won the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix for McLaren, ahead of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.
Is there a Dutch Grand Prix in 2027?
No. There is no Dutch Grand Prix on the 2027 Formula 1 calendar. Portimão in Portugal takes its place in 2027 and 2028.
What will happen to Circuit Zandvoort now?
The circuit stays open for racing and events, and Formula E comes to Zandvoort from 2027.
Visiting Zandvoort? Here’s where to get the best burger in Zandvoort, and check the Events Calendar for what’s on.
Sources: Formula 1, Wikipedia: 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, Motorsport.com.
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