Verstappen names favorite F1 tracks that deserve ‘separate status’

Max Verstappen has made it clear which six Formula 1 circuits he believes should be guaranteed a permanent place on the sport’s calendar – while also firmly shutting the door on any hope of the iconic Nordschleife ever returning to the F1 fold.

Verstappen’s selection reflects a deep appreciation for tracks steeped in motorsport heritage, each offering unique challenges that test drivers to their limits.

Unfortunately, two of the Dutchman’s favourite circuits will disappear from the sport’s schedule in 2026, while a third will only feature in a rotation format from 2027.

“Circuits that, in my opinion, deserve a ‘separate status’ and always belong on the calendar, purely on sporting grounds, are Spa-Francorchamps, Zandvoort, Silverstone, Imola, Suzuka and Brazil,” the reigning world champion told Formule1 Magazine.

Indeed, both Zandvoort – Verstappen’s home track – and Imola have not seen their contract renewed with Formula 1, while the latter will continue to race at Spa in 2026 and 2027 before the circuit rotates with another likely European venue.

“F1 There, That Will Never Happen Again”

While Verstappen is keen to protect the heritage tracks, or at least several of them, he was also asked about the potential of reviving F1 racing at one of the most legendary and dangerous circuits in the world — the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife.

The German circuit last hosted a Formula 1 race in 1976, during which Niki Lauda suffered a near-fatal crash that underlined the extreme risks of the 21-kilometre “Green Hell.”

Verstappen recently completed laps of the track in a GT3 car, and while he clearly enjoyed the experience, he firmly dismissed the idea of modern F1 cars returning.

“That's really not going to happen with the Formula 1 cars we have now, I'm afraid,” he said.

“With GT3 speed it is okay and still doable. I have seen old footage now and then, also of Formula 1 on the Nordschleife.

“One thing is for sure: F1 there, that will never happen again. Far too dangerous.”

A Changing Calendar — But Not One He Likes

In recent seasons, Formula 1 has expanded its global footprint, adding high-glitz venues such as Las Vegas, Jeddah and Miami. While these races serve a growing commercial ambition, Verstappen is clearly not enthused by the calendar’s direction — particularly its ballooning length and the marginalisation of motorsport heritage.

“Ultimately, you hope that a motorsport culture will also develop in those countries,” he said, referring to the newer additions.

“But if it were up to me, the calendar would look very different and also have fewer races.”

As a four-time World Champion who has spent much of his career advocating for purer racing values, Verstappen’s remarks are likely to resonate with many fans and purists alike – especially as more traditional venues fight to stay on the grid.

For Verstappen, the message is clear: some circuits are irreplaceable.

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