Bernie Ecclestone believes the Dutch Grand Prix would never have returned to the Formula 1 calendar without Max Verstappen. The former Formula 1 chief has once again expressed his admiration for the four-time Dutch world champion, crediting his popularity and success with reviving interest in a home race at Zandvoort.
The Dutch circuit is preparing to host Formula 1 for the final time for now, with the next Grand Prix taking place in just over two weeks. Although Zandvoort has not been confirmed for future seasons, the organisers have refused to rule out another comeback further down the line.
Max Verstappen credited with reviving the Dutch Grand Prix
After disappearing from the Formula 1 calendar in 1985, Zandvoort returned in 2021 with a modernised layout that was warmly received by drivers and fans.
The comeback coincided with Max Verstappen’s rise to the summit of Formula 1. The Dutch driver’s enormous popularity transformed every edition into a major national sporting event, with the grandstands filled by the supporters widely known as the Orange Army.
Every Dutch Grand Prix since the circuit returned to Formula 1 has attracted sell-out crowds, with thousands of fans travelling to Zandvoort to support their home hero. According to Bernie Ecclestone, that renewed enthusiasm would not have existed without the success of the four-time world champion.
Max Verstappen’s achievements with Red Bull gave the Netherlands a genuine Formula 1 superstar at precisely the moment when efforts were being made to restore Zandvoort to the championship.
Robert van Overdijk thanks Max Verstappen for Zandvoort success
Bernie Ecclestone is not alone in recognising the impact Max Verstappen has had on the Dutch Grand Prix. Zandvoort circuit director Robert van Overdijk has also admitted that Formula 1’s return would not have been possible without the Dutch driver.
“If that emerging hero had not been there, we would never have sat down at the table with the Formula 1 organisers,” Robert van Overdijk said. “Without Max, none of this would have happened.
“He made these editions very special. He gave the circuit a touch of glamour and history.”
The Dutch Grand Prix quickly became one of the most recognisable events on the European calendar after its 2021 comeback. The coastal circuit’s banked corners, compact layout and sea of orange in the grandstands helped establish a distinctive identity for the race.
Could Zandvoort return to Formula 1 in the future?
Formula 1 will return to the Netherlands in two weeks for what is currently expected to be Zandvoort’s final appearance on the calendar. Full details of the weekend can be found in the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix schedule.
The circuit has not secured a place in the championship for the following seasons, but the organisers are treating the departure as a pause rather than definitively closing the door on Formula 1.
“For the moment, we are taking a break, but we do not rule out returning to pay tribute not only to the Netherlands, but also to its great hero,” Robert van Overdijk concluded, referring to Max Verstappen.
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