Formula One could be returning to the Netherlands by the 2020 season, sources have confirmed, as the management of the sport has laid down an offer at the Dutch circuit Zandvoort to organize a Grand Prix. Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf recently revealed that Formula One Management Limited has formally approached Zandvoort with the offer that they could organize the event for 20 million euro’s (roughly $23 million or £17.5 million). Besides the fee, other organizing costs are estimated to be between 10 and 20 million euros.
Dutch prince Bernhard of Oranje, owner of the Zandvoort circuit, explained to De Telegraaf that he’s one signature away from having the Dutch Grand Prix making a return on the F1 calendar after over 30 years of being absent: “If we sign now, the Netherlands will have a Grand Prix again in 2020,” he revealed – “With Max Verstappen. Everyone of us realises that this is a unique opportunity.”
The rise of Max Verstappen in Formula 1 has sparked a massive spike in interest of the sport in the Netherlands. Every year, hundreds of thousands of Dutch fans travel to Spa Francorchamps to cheer on their favourite, and tens of thousands more make their way to Austria as well. The Formula 1 management, therefore, is very well aware of the fact that organizing a Grand Prix in Verstappen’s home country could prove very profitable.
Zandvoort has hosted a total 30 Grands Prix. The last one in 1985 was won by none other than Niki Lauda.
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