Max Verstappen has expressed his views regarding the upcoming changes to the Formula 1 calendar, focusing on the Dutch Grand Prix’s planned removal after 2026. The Red Bull Racing driver emphasized his preferences to the FIA about the kind of circuit that should replace the Zandvoort race, highlighting his concern over maintaining the quality and character of Formula 1 venues.
The four-time world champion, who saw the Dutch Grand Prix return to the schedule in 2021, shared that while he is open to F1 continuing in the Netherlands, he prefers that the replacement not be another street circuit. Verstappen, who has enjoyed strong success at Zandvoort, explained that the nature of the tracks influences the overall racing experience and should guide calendar decisions.
Verstappen’s Caution Against More Street Circuits in Formula 1
Addressing media ahead of the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix, Verstappen stated his clear preference for avoiding an increase in street circuits on the calendar. His warning comes amid a recent trend in F1 to add several more street races, which he believes could detract from the sport’s essence.
“As long as we don’t add another street circuit, then I am happy,” Max Verstappen said during his media interaction ahead of the 2025 edition of the event.
This caution is grounded in recent calendar adjustments: the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola was removed in favor of a new street race in Madrid starting in 2026. Additionally, Las Vegas joined the calendar in 2023, while the Miami and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix, both street circuits, were added in 2021 and 2022 respectively. However, the return of the Chinese Grand Prix in 2024 offers a contrast, as it features a traditional racing circuit rather than a street layout.
Circuits Verstappen Believes Should Remain Key Stops on the F1 Calendar
Earlier in the year, Verstappen outlined his vision for a more focused Formula 1 calendar, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong motorsport cultures and prioritizing certain tracks. Speaking to a Dutch outlet, he underscored that the racing heritage and sporting value of specific venues justify their permanent presence in the championship.
“Ultimately, you hope that a motorsport culture will also develop in those countries.”
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver
“But if it were up to me, the calendar would look very different and also have fewer races. 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.”
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver
Verstappen’s remarks point to a desire for a calendar that emphasizes historic and high-quality circuits known for delivering exciting racing and maintaining strong fan engagement. These include classic venues such as Spa-Francorchamps and Silverstone, which have long been pillars of the Formula 1 season.
Upcoming Calendar Shifts and Their Potential Impact on the Sport
The 2025 Formula 1 calendar balances traditional tracks with street races, featuring 15 permanent venues and nine street circuits. This variety is expected to shift again in 2026 with the introduction of the Madrid Grand Prix, replacing the Emilia Romagna race at Imola. The change has drawn attention partly because of Verstappen’s preference for non-street circuits, especially in locations where F1 has strong fan bases.
As the calendar evolves, Verstappen’s comments highlight the ongoing debate within Formula 1 about the ideal mix of circuits. His stance underscores the importance of preserving the sport’s heritage while adapting to new markets, and it will be interesting to see how the FIA addresses these competing priorities in the coming seasons.
