Ecclestone: Verstappen the real reason for Dutch GP return
Former Formula 1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has credited Max Verstappen as the primary driver behind the Dutch Grand Prix's return to Zandvoort in 2021. The race had been absent from the calendar since 1985. Ecclestone's comments come as the 2026 edition marks what is expected to be the final running at the circuit for the foreseeable future.
Ecclestone's assessment of the 2021 revival
Former Formula 1 commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone has identified /drivers/max-verstappen as the decisive factor in the Dutch Grand Prix's return to Circuit Zandvoort in 2021 after a 36-year absence from the calendar.[1]
"The real reason is Max," Ecclestone told outlets. "Without Max, it wouldn't have happened."[1][2]
The race had last featured on the schedule in 1985 before its reinstatement amid rising interest in the sport within the Netherlands.
Context for the 2026 edition
This year's event at Zandvoort is widely expected to be the final edition for the near term, with the circuit set to drop off the calendar afterward.
Related reading
- [1]Ecclestone: Max Verstappen the 'real reason' for F1 Dutch GP return (motorsportweek). Accessed 2026-08-09.
- [2]Bernie Ecclestone hails Max Verstappen as 'real reason' for historic F1 return (racingnews365). Accessed 2026-08-09.