The Dutch Grand Prix, located right next to the sea, has the almost impossible attraction of being both a very old, traditional race in the Formula 1 calendar, and a very new, modern one. It keeps fans of all ages happy!
In this blog we’ll cast our eyes over the fascinating history of the Circuit Zandvoort track, as well letting you know how you can secure tickets to head to the Netherlands for the next Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix.
History of the Circuit Zandvoort
Before the start of World War 2, racing was becoming a big deal in the Netherlands. A street race was held in the beach resort of Zandvoort in 1939, and plans were put in place to build a permanent track – although this didn’t start until the end of the war.
The first race took place in August 1948, and in 1950 they held the first Grand Prix – although at this stage it was not part of the Formula 1 World Championship. The business side of proceedings was a problem in those early days – no race was held in 1954, 1956 or 1957 as they didn’t have enough money. 1957 also saw the death of Wim Gerlach on the second bend of the track – the bend was later renamed Gerlach Corner in his honour.
It was a permanent fixture in the world Championship between 1958 and 1985, but was no race in 1972 when the drivers refused as the facilities and track were outdated. Extensive work was carried out – new pits and Armco lined the track to protect the cars from the nearby sand dunes.
When the race returned in 1973, it was one of the darkest days in Formula 1 as driver Roger Williamson died in a horrific fire near Tunnel Oost. The poor organisation at the track was seen as a contributing factor to Williams’ death – more improvements were required.
In 1985 the company that ran Circuit Zandvoort went out of business and the Dutch Grand Prix ceased to be raced. Fortunately, new owners stepped in, and the track was remodelled to cope with a growing number of issues.
By the early 90’s Circuit Zandvoort began hosting low-profile racing again. Then in 1995 the Netherlands government committed funds for an international Grand Prix circuit, and Circuit Zandvoort was given a new lease of life – new track design, a new pits building and a new grandstand – which was all finished in 2001.
Formula 1 racing was finally scheduled to return to the Circuit Zandvoort track in 2020 – only for it to be delayed by the COVID pandemic. Eventually, 2021 saw the return of Formula One – more than 35 years since the previous Dutch Grand Prix.
What is the Circuit Zandvoort track like?
Surrounded by sand dunes and spitting distance from the beach, Circuit Zandvoort is a special race track. It’s become a firm favourite with fans and drivers – it’s tricky, but fast, with undulations (18 degrees at Tarzan Corner!) and select opportunities for overtaking. It’s exactly what you want from a Formula One track.
Memorable Moments on the Circuit Zandvoort track
There have been so many incredible moments in the history of the Dutch Grand Prix. Take the 1979 Grand Prix, when Gilles Villeneuve lost a wheel on his car, and to the astonishment of the crowd, he carried on for another lap! He was forced to retire, but it was an iconic moment in F1 history.
In 1985, the legendary Niki Lauda claimed what would be his final ever Grand Prix victory as he beat his teammate Alain Prost after a nail-biting final 12 laps where the lead constantly changed hands.
And then in 2021, 195,000 fans saw the return of the Dutch Grand Prix and witnessed Max Verstappen become the first Dutch driver to win the Dutch Grand Prix – what a story!
How to get tickets for the Dutch Grand Prix
If you want to be at the next Formula One Race Weekend at the Circuit Zandvoort, then we can help. We provide incredible packages including official tickets as well as accommodation in a great hotel nearby Amsterdam – the ideal location for a memorable weekend away.
Usually held in early September, you’ll get sun, sea, sand, exhilarating sport and a stay in one of the most popular cities on earth. Start planning your trip to the Dutch Grand Prix today! Call us now on 0333 2309115 or contact us.
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