Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali hailed Max Verstappen's new Red Bull deal and reflected on Zandvoort's legacy, while also teasing future calendar excitement.
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali shared his insights during what marked Zandvoort's final appearance on the F1 calendar. His comments covered the significant news of Max Verstappen's contract extension with Red Bull, the emotional departure of the Dutch Grand Prix, and a look ahead to the evolving 2026 championship season.
The announcement that Verstappen had signed a new deal to race for the Milton Keynes-based team until the end of 2030 brought an end to widespread speculation about his future. This development, revealed just before the final Dutch Grand Prix weekend, was particularly pleasing to Domenicali.
Despite Zandvoort's farewell, Domenicali conveyed a positive outlook, emphasizing the circuit's achievements and looking forward to an action-packed second half of the current season and promising changes to the Formula 1 calendar. His reflections come according to reporting by Formula 1 (site oficial).
Max Verstappen's Future Secured: A 'Cherry on the Cake' for F1
Stefano Domenicali described Max Verstappen's decision to remain with Red Bull for the upcoming years as the “cherry on the cake” for the Dutch Grand Prix weekend. He expressed immense satisfaction with the news, highlighting Verstappen's stature in the sport.
“It’s great news, very proud and happy because Max is a World Champion, a world-class person that has a great personality in the sport, and I cannot see Formula 1 without him,” Domenicali stated, as the racing action continued at Zandvoort.
The Formula 1 CEO is confident that this official announcement will eliminate any lingering speculation, allowing Red Bull to fully concentrate on providing the four-time World Champion with the best possible car. “Really very happy that this news now is official and all this talk that has been happening so far will be out of place,” he added. “And now I’m sure that the focus for the team is to be as good as possible to give Max the best car that they can.”
Zandvoort's Emotional Goodbye to F1 and Dedicated Fans
This past weekend marked the final Dutch Grand Prix, concluding Zandvoort's six-year return to the Formula 1 calendar. However, Domenicali prefers to focus on celebrating the circuit's remarkable contributions rather than dwelling on sadness over its departure.
“It’s amazing,” Domenicali reflected. “I just want to start to say thank you – thank you Zandvoort, thank you to the Dutch fans for the energy they brought to the eco system of Formula 1.” He acknowledged Zandvoort's challenging return during the Covid pandemic, commending their ability to host an "incredible event."
The F1 chief praised the unparalleled energy from the Dutch crowd, calling it a constant "reference" for the sport. “We are leaving this weekend not with the sadness of losing Zandvoort, but a positive at having done something unique, that will stay in the books of Formula 1,” he affirmed, celebrating the track's memorable legacy.
Looking Ahead: The Evolving F1 Calendar and New Challenges
With the 2026 championship battle intensifying, Domenicali also shared his excitement for the remainder of the season and upcoming calendar developments. He highlighted a bustling schedule following Zandvoort, including Monza, which is expected to be "packed, crazy."
Looking further ahead, Domenicali enthusiastically spoke about new venues joining the calendar, such as Madrid, which will host a race for the first time in many years. He also mentioned Malaysia's unexpected return as the "host of the Bahrain Grand Prix," indicating unique arrangements for future seasons.
Domenicali provided an update on ticket sales, noting the incredible demand: “I can share the incredible information that the tickets in the grandstand are sold out, so now we’re going to have a general admission ticket that will be on the market.” He celebrated selling out a market not in F1 since 2017 as "an incredible achievement." The calendar remains confirmed, with excitement building for Las Vegas, and only a few tickets still available for Abu Dhabi, ensuring a strong finish to the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Max Verstappen's contract extension significant for Formula 1?
Max Verstappen's contract extension with Red Bull until the end of 2030 is significant because it secures one of the sport's most dominant and popular drivers for the long term. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali sees him as a "world-class person" essential to the sport, ensuring continued top-tier competition and fan engagement.
Why is the Zandvoort Dutch Grand Prix leaving the F1 calendar?
The Zandvoort Dutch Grand Prix is concluding its six-year return to the Formula 1 calendar. While the specific reasons for its departure are not detailed, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali emphasized celebrating the circuit's "unique" contributions and the incredible energy brought by Dutch fans, rather than focusing on sadness.
What new locations or changes are expected on the future Formula 1 calendar?
The future Formula 1 calendar is set to introduce new challenges and opportunities, including a race in Madrid for the first time in many years. Additionally, Malaysia is confirmed to return as the host for the Bahrain Grand Prix, while popular events like Las Vegas and Monza are confirmed to continue generating immense excitement.