Max Verstappen has affirmed he possesses no “extra motivation” as he approaches the Dutch Grand Prix, Zandvoort’s final Formula 1 event for the foreseeable future. The 71-time race winner emphasises that he maintains a consistent drive to perform, regardless of the venue’s weight.
This weekend’s race marks the sixth since Zandvoort’s reintroduction to the calendar in 2021, yet it will soon be dropped by 2027, making way for the re-emergence of the Turkish and Portuguese Grands Prix. Meanwhile, the Spanish Grand Prix will alternate bi-annually with the Belgian GP. Verstappen’s performance at Zandvoort has been exceptional; he secured victory in the first three races and finished second in the subsequent years, maintaining an impressive average finishing position of 1.4.
Verstappen’s Strong Track Record at Zandvoort
In terms of multi-start races, Verstappen’s record here is nearly unparalleled. Excluding the unique 70th Anniversary Grand Prix of 2020, his average finish at Zandvoort is only surpassed by his performance at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. There, he clinched four victories out of five races run between 2020 and 2022, facing only one retirement in 2020.
No Added Pressure for Home Race
As Zandvoort hosts a Sprint for the first time, Verstappen insists that the presence of his home crowd does not amplify his competitive spirit. “I never have any extra motivation because that would be bad,” he told RacingNews365. Instead, he aims continuously to excel, enjoying the unique atmosphere while appreciating the strong local support he has received over the years.
Verstappen’s Commitment Beyond 2027
Verstappen reassured fans that the circuit’s closure to F1 does not preclude him from driving at Zandvoort in the future. “The track is still there, right? And if I want to drive there, I can,” he stated, hinting at his enduring connection to the venue beyond the Formula 1 era.
The SportiveNews view
Verstappen’s readiness for this farewell Zandvoort race encapsulates his consistent drive to excel, irrespective of the calendar’s whims. As he tackles this circuit’s unique challenges, his historical prowess may yield real insights into his team’s trajectory this season, even if this event will not repeat in the near future.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Dutch Grand Prix leaving the calendar?
The Dutch Grand Prix is set to fall off the Formula 1 calendar in 2027, with new additions like the Turkish and Portuguese Grands Prix, while Barcelona-Catalunya will enter a bi-annual schedule alongside the Belgian Grand Prix.
What has Verstappen’s performance been like at Zandvoort?
Max Verstappen boasts a distinguished record at Zandvoort, winning the first three races since its return in 2021 and finishing second in both 2024 and 2025, maintaining an impressive average finishing position of 1.4, which ranks among the top of his career.
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