Zandvoort gears up for its last Formula 1 Grand Prix

Formula 1 is set to conclude its final Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort on Sunday, marking the end of a six-year run due to rising costs. Reigning world champion Lando Norris will start the race from pole position, while Max Verstappen, racing at home for the last time and out of the title race, will start seventh. George Russell claimed victory in the sprint race on Saturday, with Verstappen finishing sixth and qualifying seventh, citing "fundamental problems" with his car.

Rain fell on Sunday morning, but the track is expected to be dry for the race. Verstappen has won the first three Formula 1 races at Zandvoort since its return in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Norris claimed the title in 2024, and Oscar Piastri won the last season. The decision to end the race was made by Circuit Zandvoort's director Robert van Overdijk, who preferred to finish while the event was at its peak rather than risk rising costs.

Zandvoort and the British Grand Prix at Silverstone are the only races on the calendar without government financial support, financed privately by a group of family firms. The race has drawn around 100,000 fans daily, with most supporters dressed in orange for Verstappen. The circuit will continue to host other racing events, including the all-electric Formula E series starting in 2027.