Formula 1 News: Verstappen's home circuit of Zandvoort eyes NASCAR and IndyCar

The Dutch Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort, a cherished home race for Max Verstappen, will wave goodbye to Formula One after the 2026 season. General director Robert van Overdijk recently shared the reasoning behind this pivotal decision, hinting at an exciting pivot toward hosting NASCAR and IndyCar events in the years ahead.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

As the 2025 race gears up for this weekend—marking the penultimate event at the historic track—emotions are running high. With only two races left in a partnership that has captivated fans, the atmosphere promises to be bittersweet. When RacingNews365 asked van Overdijk if this weekend’s race would feel particularly special, he reflected, “Not yet, I don’t think so. Ask me next year, and I’ll say a resounding yes. The final 2026 edition will likely stir emotions much like our debut race, though in its own way. This event is a national treasure in the Netherlands, and we all feel its weight.”

Looking to the future, he added, “If we part ways after 2026, Formula 1 will likely redirect its focus to other continents. Next year will be extraordinary, but after that, it may be years—or even forever—before the sport returns to the Netherlands.”

Van Overdijk also addressed Formula One Management’s (FOM) mixed reaction. “Initially, there was disappointment—something that filled us with pride. But they understood our reasoning,” he said. He pointed to the financial strain, noting, “Unlike Silverstone, we receive no subsidies for this Grand Prix. Stefano Domenicali [F1 CEO] has praised us for setting a new benchmark in Formula 1, and we’re proud of that. Yet, with just Circuit Zandvoort, TIG Sports, and SportVibes footing the bill, we bear the full risk of this mega-event. At some point, those risks become unsustainable, and FOM recognizes that. We still collaborate brilliantly, and together, we’re determined to make the final two races unforgettable.”

Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB19 and Lando Norris of Great Britain driving the (4) McLaren MCL60 Mercedes line up on the first row of the grid for the start during the F1 Grand Prix of The Netherlands at Circuit Zandvoort on August 27, 2023 in Zandvoort, Netherlands. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool //

Looking beyond 2026, van Overdijk revealed plans to fill the void left by Formula 1. “We’re limited to four unrestricted noise weekends annually, and one will open up in 2027. I’ve been in discussions with various interested parties for some time. What matters is that whatever replaces Formula 1 brings value. It won’t match F1’s scale—and it shouldn’t try to. It needs to deliver spectacle. Personally, I’ve got my eye across the Atlantic on America. Whether it’s IndyCar or NASCAR, I’ll leave that open for now. Both offer thrilling potential for a standout show, though that’s just my preference.”

As Circuit Zandvoort prepares for its final Formula One laps, the prospect of American motorsport stepping into the spotlight signals a bold new chapter for the Dutch racing icon.