Russell: F1 going to Zandvoort 'pretty much for Verstappen'

George Russell says F1's motivation to return to Zandvoort next year is linked to Max Verstappen's compelling popularity as the track itself is unlikely to produce a thrilling race.

Last month, Liberty Media inked a deal with Holland's historic track that will see Grand Prix racing return to Zandvoort's dunes for the first time since 1985.

F1's commercial rights holder and the Dutch track are eager to capitalize on the 'Max factor', or the irresistible impact of Verstappen's popularity and the massive following enjoyed by the Red Bull driver in his home country.

• Horner: Formula 1's return to Zandvoort will be 'immense'

From a commercial perspective, Russell understands F1's move but from a racing point of view, the Williams rookie sees a boring procession come race day in 2020.

"I love Zandvoort. For pure tracks just to drive, it's probably in my top five favourite in the world, but racing it's going to be just as bad as Monaco," Russell said.

"But everybody knows what to expect when they come to Monaco, they know what to expect when we go to Australia, overtaking's going to be limited. And now Zandvoort will be added to the list.

"We just need to accept the fact."

Russell adds that catering to the massive F1 fan community in the Netherlands is logical, but the young Brit insists that packed grandstands won't change the action on the track.

"We're going there for, well, for Max pretty much and the Dutch fans. But Formula 1 wouldn't be what it is without the fans so we need to appreciate that," said the 21-year-old.

"It's an amazing circuit. I truly hope they don't get rid of the gravel because that's what makes the circuit so daunting to drive around. But it's going to be nigh-on impossible to race."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter