If it were up to Max Verstappen, the current overcrowded Formula 1 calendar could use some trimming. However, there are six circuits that, in his opinion, should never be up for debate.
In recent years, Formula 1 has increasingly visited countries without a real motorsport culture. This is primarily a financial decision, with the hope that motorsport will gain momentum in these regions…
Sporting Grounds
“I understand that,” responds Max Verstappen. “Ultimately, you hope that a motorsport culture will develop in those countries. But if it were up to me, the calendar would look very different and have fewer races. Circuits that, in my opinion, deserve a ‘special status’ and should always be on the calendar, purely on sporting grounds, are Spa-Francorchamps, Zandvoort, Silverstone, Imola, Suzuka, and Brazil.”
– And secretly also the Nürburgring Nordschleife?
“Haha. That’s not going to happen with the Formula 1 cars we have now, I’m afraid. It’s okay and manageable at GT3 speed. I’ve seen old footage, including Formula 1 on the Nordschleife… Then you know one thing for sure: Formula 1 there will never happen again. It’s far too dangerous.”
The Dutch GP in Zandvoort will soon, after 2026, be history. Completed past, so to speak. Max Verstappen is grateful that he was able to race there a few times and even won three times.
“Absolutely, that remains very special. These were also races that brought more pressure, especially in 2022 and 2023 because everyone expected me to win easily given the power dynamics. But it wasn’t that easy. That made it ultimately even more beautiful, also because of the backdrop with all that orange. I cherish such moments.”
