Formula 1 is interested in returning to Netherlands which has not been in F1 calendar for more than 30 years, riding the wave of increasing popularity of Max Verstappen, and according to Dutch media it may happen already in 2020.
The Netherlands hosted a F1 race back in 1985, with a total of 30 GPs held at Zandvoort, making it the 15th most held race in Formula 1 history.
Since 1952, all Dutch GPs were held on the coastline track Zandvoort, which was very popular among drivers, and Red Bull held a demonstration with their 2011 RedBull RB7 in May with local hero Max Verstappen.
Sean Bratches, the commercial chief of Formula 1, admits that F1 is very much interested in returning to the Netherlands and that it may happen soon.
“We are very much interested in racing in the Netherlands,” Bratches told Reuters.
“We had productive conversations and I am cautiously optimistic that we can do something to delight fans in this area and take advantage of Max’s factor.”
The Dutch media reported that their country could return to the F1 calendar as early as 2020, in the year when Vietnam GP will make its debut in Formula 1.
Charlie Whiting confirmed the positive impressions of the FIA’s track inspection.
“I think there’s a big potential here, a few things needs to changed, but it’s too early to talk about it,” Whiting said.
“As far as the track is concerned, I think it can be done. They have a long straight for DRS zone and we can still keep the track’s historical elements. I think it would be a very nice track.”
“I think the amount of work to be done is minimal.”
At the end of the 2020, numerous F1 destinations, including Britain, Italy, Brazil and Germany, will have their F1 contracts expired.
