Dutch GP return possible as circuit opens door

A return of the Dutch Grand Prix could be made possible, with the TT Circuit Assen having outlined its ambition to host Formula 1. 

The Dutch GP is set to be axed from the calendar at the end of 2026, the final year of Zandvoort's contract. 

Zandvoort was given a one-year extension for 2026, but will then depart F1 having returned to the pinnacle of motorsport in 2021. 

Another venue which was rumoured to be at risk, Spa-Franchorchamps, has signed a new long-term deal, but with a twist. 

The Belgian Grand Prix will become a rotational host, with it not featuring on the calendar in 2028 or 2030, but every other year until 2031. 

Some European races appear to be in danger of a similar fate to Spa; however, Assen's chairman Arjan Bos, dreams of the Dutch circuit hosting F1 in the future. 

"That is, of course, Formula 1," Bos told RTV Drenthe, when asked for his biggest dream.

"I think that when you have invested so much money in the circuit, also always with the support and sympathy of the community, that if it is possible and there is support - and we feel that - and we can organise it, then we will certainly look at it and in principle we are positive about it.

"That means that we are casting lines ourselves and that we are going to look at it calmly. But to say in advance, 'It stops at Zandvoort so we are going to do it in Assen,' is too short of the mark."

Depends on F1

Previously, RacingNews365 had been given a reluctant answer by the Assen circuit, when asked if it would consider hosting F1. 

Bos' latest comments mark a significant shift in attitude towards the pinnacle of motorsport; however, the venue is not getting carried away.

The circuit's chairman recognises F1 is keen to return to the likes of Africa and India, and is unsure if a return to the Netherlands post-2026 is something it would even consider. 

"I have to be very careful in that," Bos added. "I don't even know if Formula 1 is eager for that. I would really like to listen to Zandvoort's arguments as to why they are quitting now. In addition, I don't know if Formula 1 in the Netherlands wants to continue. 

"They actually want to organise fewer grands prix in Europe. They want to have another grand prix in Africa anyway and maybe also in India: as the largest country now in terms of population. 

"In other words: Europe must shrink and then it is not obvious that the Netherlands will continue to organise a grand prix."