The HandicapNL Foundation has been declared the winner of the inaugural F1 Allwyn Global Community Award in the lead-up to the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort. The Dutch organization will receive a donation of €100,000 in recognition of its efforts to make events accessible for people with physical, intellectual, or multiple disabilities.
The award was established by Formula 1 and its partner Allwyn to reward local initiatives that make a positive societal contribution. A jury consisting of representatives from F1, Allwyn, and the Dutch promoter of the Dutch GP awarded the prize to HandicapNL due to the tangible impact the foundation makes at major events, including the Dutch Grand Prix. In Zandvoort, the organization provided facilities such as accessible showers, medical rooms, adapted toilets, a low-stimulus zone, and a special platform along the straight.
With the donation, HandicapNL aims to make four additional events fully accessible over the next few years and support another six events with advice and facilities. In doing so, the foundation expands its reach and aids in improving accessibility for the estimated two million Dutch people with disabilities.
‘A Significant Step’
Jan Willem Koopman of HandicapNL (pictured above) sees the recognition as a significant step: “Our goal is for it to become normal for people with disabilities to attend an entire festival or event, from start to finish. Thanks to this Award, we can bring that goal closer.”
The F1 Allwyn Global Community Award is part of a multi-year partnership between Formula 1 and Allwyn. Later this year, winners will also be announced in the United States, Mexico City, and Las Vegas, with a focus on contributions to education, culture, well-being, and sustainability.
