Formula One is coming back to Zandvoort!
After more than 35 years in absentia, Formula One (F1) is coming back to Circuit Zandvoort in the Netherlands. In 2021, the appropriately titled Heineken Dutch Grand Prix will start with practices on Friday, September 3th, 2021. The Grand Prix race will take place on Sunday, September 5th, 2021.
Formula One Grand Prix facts and figures
Formula One cars are specifically designed for speed. They are designed with one seat, open wheels, an open cockpit, and wings in the front and the rear. No, they can’t actually take off and rise above the ground. It just seems like they can!
- The early 1900’s saw the start of Grand Prix racing in Europe, gaining ground particularly during the 1920’s and 1930’s.
- In 1946, Formula One became the official set of rules that defines the Grands Prix.
- In 1950, the first official Formula One World Championship race was held – in England. It was actually preceded, earlier that year, by an official Formula One non-championship race in Pau, France.
- In the early 1950’s, some of the races were restricted to Formula Two regulations because of the low availability of Formula One cars. Formula Two cars have half the horsepower of Formula One cars.
- The Zandvoort race track was built in 1948, although by then, the roads in the area had seen car races dating back to 1939.
- Zandvoort has been the home to many Grands Prix over the years, but none since 1985. 2021 will change that.
- The last Formula One race at Zandvoort was won by Niki Lauda.
- Excitement in the Netherlands is at a peak. You can guess why! Dutch champion, Max Verstappen, will finally be competing on his own turf.
About Grand Prix Circuit Zandvoort
Formula One drivers are looking forward to negotiating the Zandvoort track. They consider the circuit to be an “old-fashioned” one, and are up to the challenge. It has three straights, as well as 14 turns and corners that are not considered child’s play. Some are hairpin turns, the most challenging of which is the Tarzan Corner (Tarzanbocht).
The Zandvoort track is beautiful. Its 4.3 Km lie in the famous sand dunes of Zandvoort, close to the coast. The track includes ascents and descents, some of which include views of the North Sea, but it is doubtful that the race drivers will be paying attention to the scenery during the few minutes of the race.
Grand Prix Tickets
Tickets for Formula One at Circuit Zandvoort in 2021 were online from the Formula One website, or from any of their agents, for example, F1 Experiences. Many tickets were only be available by lottery.
Accomodation in Zandvoort
There are multiple ways to find accommodation in Zandvoort, online. Do keep in mind that the Keukenhof Gardens will still be open at the time of the Grand Prix, so don’t leave your accommodation plans till the last minute. The following are just a few options to consider:
- Find a hotel with a Formula One partner, such as F1 Rooms.
- Look for holiday homes in Zandvoort.
- Try Budget-minded accommodation in Zandvoort.
- Sign up for accommodation information on the Hotel GrandPrix – Zandvoort website.
Aside from Zandvoort, Amsterdam and Haarlem are accommodation options for the Dutch Grand Prix. Amsterdam is half an hour away from Zandvoort, and Haarlem is a mere 15 minutes away.
While you’re in Zandvoort
Of course, you are going to Zandvoort for Formula One. But don’t leave until you have taken advantage of all the attractions both the town and the region have to offer.
For nature lovers, the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is a must. The terrain is a mixture of – well – everything. Hike the dunes and the wetlands. Watch for diversity in the wildlife, then all of a sudden, when you least expect it, you’ll catch a view of the sea.
You won’t find huge shopping malls in the town of Zandspoort. However, the warmth of the little shops and the eateries, will satisfy your shopping cravings, and stave your hunger and thirst.
Take a stroll along the beach. You may find the weather to be just the right temperature. Warm, but not too hot.
If you’re based in Amsterdam, Zandvoort can be reached by car, train, or even by bike!