“This is the end of the journey!” David Coulthard discusses Zandvoort’s Formula 1 future

Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has explained why the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix at the Zandvoort circuit will be the final race held at the venue.

TodayPress TV reports that he made the remarks on the “Up To Speed” podcast.

According to Coulthard, the main reasons are the limited infrastructure around Zandvoort and the circuit’s inability to expand.

“In my opinion, if we look at how this Grand Prix came about, Prince Bernhard of Orange-Nassau of the Netherlands and his wife are motorsport enthusiasts. They played an important role in bringing the Grand Prix back to the Netherlands following Max Verstappen’s success. However, their ability to develop the infrastructure is limited.

“Zandvoort” is surrounded by a nature reserve and sand dunes. It cannot expand or grow. Formula 1, meanwhile, is looking for new opportunities to increase its commercial revenues. I think that, in its current state, it is no longer commercially viable for them. And there are other venues available for Formula 1,” Coulthard said.

The former driver also emphasized that Rwanda and other countries are seeking to join the Formula 1 family and are ready to build new facilities with modern infrastructure to achieve this goal.

Coulthard also noted that the Zandvoort circuit holds a special place in his heart. He said he won his first international Formula 3 race there.

“There is a lot to thank Zandvoort for. But we have reached the end of this journey, and I don’t believe Formula 1 will ever return here. So, ladies and gentlemen, remember this era,” Coulthard said.

Namiq HUN