F1 Zandvoort: welcome at Verstappens house

Zandvoort Track Characteristics:

• Full name: Circuit Zandvoort (formerly Circuit Park Zandvoort)
• Length: 4.259 km
• Number of turns: 14 (10 right, 4 left)
• Direction: clockwise
• Most iconic corner: Tarzanbocht (Turn 1)
• Banked corners: Hugenholtzbocht (Turn 3) and Arie Luyendykbocht (Turn 14), both featuring up to 18 degrees of banking
• Main straight length: approximately 678 meters
• Maximum gradient: around 18% in some sections
• Elevation changes: continuous ups and downs, with differences of up to 14 meters

Speed & Performance (F1):

• Fastest race lap record: 1:11.097 (Lewis Hamilton, 2021)
• Average qualifying speed: over 220 km/h
• DRS zones: 2 (main straight and between Turns 10-11)

Some history

Officially named CM.com Circuit Zandvoort (https://www.circuitzandvoort.nl/en/) due to sponsorship, this track combines tradition, technical challenge, and an electrifying atmosphere—especially when it lights up for the Dutch Grand Prix. The circuit was born in 1948, built using old roads that had been used during World War II. It became a legendary stage for Formula 1 from 1952 to 1985, with champions like Jim Clark and Niki Lauda leaving their mark in racing history.

After a long absence from the F1 calendar, nearly 36 years of neglect and decline, Zandvoort roared back to life in 2021, driven by the Max Verstappen phenomenon and the unstoppable passion of the “Orange Army”, the Dutch fans who flood the grandstands with their iconic color.

To prepare for the grand return of fans and Formula 1, Zandvoort underwent a major renovation between 2019 and 2020, featuring a redesign that introduced spectacular banked corners such as the Hugenholtzbocht and Arie Luyendykbocht, both aimed at encouraging overtakes and bold strategies.

The circuit measures 4.259 km in length, with 14 corners that challenge even the most skilled drivers. It’s a narrow and twisty track, with little room for error—precision is everything here.

The most famous corner is the Tarzanbocht, a 180° hairpin right after the main straight, a favorite spot for dramatic overtaking. Then there’s the Hugenholtzbocht, with its impressive 18% banking, allowing for creative lines. Finally, the Arie Luyendykbocht, banked at 19%, slingshots the cars onto the main straight at speeds approaching 300 km/h, offering a thrilling end to each lap.

The lap record at Zandvoort is held by Lewis Hamilton, who set an impressive 1:11.097 during the 2021 Dutch Grand Prix. With two DRS zones, the circuit delivers excitement but also demands flawless driving.

Attending a race at Zandvoort is a truly unique experience. The atmosphere is electric—a blend of sport and celebration, with concerts and DJ sets turning the Grand Prix weekend into a full-on festival.

Its proximity to the sea adds a special touch: the dunes offer a stunning backdrop, but fans should be ready for sand kicked up by the wind!

If you’re planning to watch the race in person, the best grandstands are:

• Tarzanbocht: ideal for thrilling overtakes
• Arena: offers a panoramic view of multiple corners
• Main straight: perfect to witness the race start and pit action

How to reach Zandvoort track

The circuit is highly accessible: you can reach it easily by train from Amsterdam to Zandvoort aan Zee station, which is just a short walk from the track. It’s best to avoid driving, as parking is very limited during the Grand Prix weekend.

Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen, as the track is exposed to both wind and sand coming from the nearby sea. Umbrellas are often not allowed, so a light raincoat is a smarter choice in case of unpredictable weather. And after the race? Fans can head to Zandvoort beach to unwind and enjoy a drink at one of the many beachfront bars along the coast.

It will be a weekend entirely dedicated to the Dutch spirit, with Max Verstappen as the true hometown hero. Zandvoort is often nicknamed “Verstappen’s living room” due to the overwhelming support from the Dutch fans.

Keep an eye on the color of the smoke flares—the sea of orange might not only cheer for Red Bull but could also lead to some confusion, as McLaren might feel part of the celebration too, given their similar team color.