Join us behind the scenes of Formula 1: our reporters were present at every Grand Prix in 2025, including in Zandvoort. We write about our experiences not only online, but also in our magazine. Part 15 of 24: Gerard Bos on a celebration in his own country.
On a Friday in Zandvoort, two fans discuss the day’s schedule. However, they’re not talking about free practice sessions, Porsches, or the F1 Academy. Instead, they’re discussing Kensington, Gerard Joling, 2 Unlimited, and the Vengaboys (nostalgia!). And Mental Theo. Because the Dutch GP is also a grand music festival.
But what happens on the shores of the North Sea when night falls? When the engines are silent, the paddock is deserted, reporters have closed their laptops, and mechanics and drivers have already left?
It’s time to test the waters in the fan zone. Armed with a zero-alcohol beer and earplugs, we watch Kensington rock the stage from around seven o’clock. Later, there’s a 90’s party with Mental Theo. We even see Ray from 2 Unlimited dancing as if it’s 1994. Impressive. And the Vengaboys? They’re still going to Ibiza three decades later, they sing. The crowd, sometimes dressed in F1 gear, painted in orange or in red-white-blue, cheers. And dances.
Zandvoort, the Dutch GP. Never a dull moment. Especially not in the fan zone, it seems.
