Norris addresses ‘surprise’ Dutch GP exit

Lando Norris has revealed that he is “surprised” to see the Dutch Grand Prix only offered a new F1 deal until 2026. 

It was confirmed ahead of last season’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that Zandvoort had only been offered a one-year contract extension for 2026, before falling off the calendar. 

Several European races have found themselves at risk of being axed from the sport, with the Belgian Grand Prix being extended until 2031 but as a rotational host. 

Becoming a rotational host was, according to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, an option put on the table to Zandvoort, with the promoter having decided to depart when its deal concludes. 

Of course, the end of the Dutch GP next year means Max Verstappen has just two more home races, unless another circuit in the country reaches a deal with the pinnacle of motorsport. 

TT Circuit Assen has outlined its ambition to host F1, although the championship’s focus is on a return to Africa. 

F1 leaving the Netherlands is disappointing for Norris, who claimed victory in the Dutch GP last year. 

“I mean, I don’t know the reasoning for why it’s only [until] ’26 maybe you know more than me,” Norris told select media including RacingNews365. 

“I enjoy it, of course, we had a great one. It’s always a very fun weekend for me. It’s some of the most passionate and exciting fans, I would say, of the whole season. 

“So it’s one of the ones I genuinely enjoy the most, even though all of the fans are there for Max, it’s one that I really enjoy. A good atmosphere. Good music, it’s busy, it’s noisy, I enjoy it. 

“It’s definitely a lot further up my list than a lot of other tracks. So I’m surprised why it’s not [been extended] further, but I don’t know all the reasonings for things.”