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Dutch Grand Prix Set for Final Race, to Host Sprint Event
The Circuit Zandvoort will conclude its current tenure on the Formula 1 calendar this season, with its final Dutch Grand Prix weekend featuring the fourth sprint event of the year.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-08-17T09:20:08.000Z - 2 min read
The Formula 1 calendar prepares to bid farewell to the Dutch Grand Prix this season, with the Circuit Zandvoort hosting what is set to be its final event. Taking place from August 21-23, the weekend will also feature the fourth sprint race of the 2026 campaign, adding a compressed format to the circuit's swansong.
Zandvoort's return to Formula 1 in 2021, after an absence spanning 36 years, captured significant fan interest, particularly due to the immense support for local hero Max Verstappen. Despite consistently attracting sell-out crowds, the venue has reportedly faced ongoing financial viability challenges, ultimately leading to its upcoming departure from the schedule.
The circuit quickly became synonymous with Verstappen's dominance upon its comeback, with the four-time world champion securing pole position and victory in the initial three editions. More recently, however, McLaren broke this winning streak, taking the top step with Lando Norris in 2024 and his teammate Oscar Piastri following suit in 2025.
As the championship returns from its summer break, Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli currently holds a substantial lead in the standings. The 19-year-old boasts six victories across the 11 races contested so far this season, establishing a 50-point advantage over Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton. McLaren's Lando Norris secured his first main race win of the year at the recent Hungarian Grand Prix, with Max Verstappen finishing second and Antonelli third.
The introduction of the sprint format means a condensed schedule for the Dutch event. Friday's action will include a single practice session followed by sprint qualifying. This determines the grid for Saturday morning's 24-lap sprint race, where the top eight finishers will earn championship points, ranging from eight for first place down to one for eighth.
The traditional qualifying session for Sunday's main Grand Prix will take place on Saturday afternoon, preceding the 72-lap main event on Sunday. Weather forecasts for the seaside resort indicate a cool and somewhat unsettled weekend, with predictions of light rain, cloudy skies, and temperatures between 18C and 20C. While the risk of rain for Saturday’s shorter sessions is low, Sunday’s main race is expected to be largely dry with periods of sunshine.