Didier Pironi won the 1982 Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort © WRI2
Dutch sensation Max Verstappen could well compete on home soil during his Formula One career, as Zandvoort contemplates hosting a “Grand Prix in the Netherlands” again.
GPUpdate.net reports that local politicians have given the green light to investigate a potential return of the iconic track to the F1 calendar. All Dutch Grand Prix have been held at Zandvoort. The latest event took place in 1985, with Niki Lauda securing his final win in the top flight.
“Everyone is excited about it,” said Jerry Kramer, a member a of the VVD party that holds the majority in the local council.
“I think we need to tackle it together: governments and businesses in the region.
“It is a historic circuit, it would be so nice if we could get back on the calendar. I realise that it will cost tens of millions of Euros to bring back Formula One, but we should certainly explore the possibilities.”
Although Zandvoort fell off the F1 radar 30 years ago, the venue is still used for other motor racing categories like Blancpain, while also remaining the home of the famous Masters of Formula 3.
Circuit boss Erik Weijers is naturally delighted to see the project move forward, though he remains aware it will probably take several years before it comes to fruition
“There is a lot of money involved, but this is a first step,” he told Dutch news website NU.nl. “Should it come to a concrete plan it will take some time. Perhaps in 2019 or 2020.
“Simply put, three things must happen. The infrastructure needs to be improved, the circuit needs to be refurbished and the financial requirements of the Formula One organisation must be met.
“And if we do that then we get another Grand Prix in the Netherlands.”
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