As the Dutch Grand Prix begins its final chapter, Zandvoort prepares for one of its last races before leaving the calendar after 2026. Max Verstappen returns home to a sea of orange, with his Red Bull contract now secured through 2027. Yet, pressure builds to close the growing gap to McLaren before the season ends. Fans are expected to pack the grandstands for what could be one of the last chances to see Verstappen race on home soil.
Meanwhile, McLaren faces an unexpected internal rivalry. Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris enter Zandvoort separated by just nine points, turning their partnership into a championship duel. Although Piastri insists there’s “no tension at all,” their fierce competition could test that claim in the coming rounds. After early signs of strain at Silverstone, the next few races will reveal whether McLaren can manage two title contenders under one roof.
The FIA has also raised the pit-lane speed limit at Zandvoort from 60 to 80 km/h, reducing pit stop times and adding strategy twists. Additionally, Pirelli has selected softer compounds (C2–C4) to encourage two-stop strategies on the tight, twisting circuit. With rain in the forecast, teams must prepare for unpredictable track conditions, as officials closely monitor wet-weather safety procedures following recent controversies.
Big Moves Off the Track
Off the circuit, major news continues to shape the sport’s future. McLaren has announced a historic rebrand for 2026, becoming the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team under a record-breaking $100 million-per-season sponsorship deal. The partnership, revealed in Amsterdam, marks McLaren’s first naming-rights sponsor since Vodafone and its largest commercial agreement ever. CEO Zak Brown called it a “fan-first initiative” designed to bring supporters closer to the team. McLaren will keep its current name through 2025 while chasing consecutive Constructors’ titles.
Elsewhere, Cadillac has confirmed Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas as its debut driver lineup for 2026. Together, they bring more than 500 race starts and 100 podiums, making them a strong foundation for the new team. Cadillac will use Ferrari engines until 2029 before introducing its own power unit, signaling long-term ambition in Formula 1.
Adding to the celebrations, Pirelli marks its 500th Grand Prix at Zandvoort. The company will feature a commemorative logo on all slick compounds throughout the weekend. Since supplying tires for F1’s first-ever race in 1950, Pirelli has maintained its role as sole supplier since 2011, underscoring its deep legacy in the sport.
Former Ferrari driver Rubens Barrichello also made headlines off-track by winning the 2025 NASCAR Brazil Series at age 53. The veteran sealed his first major racing title with a victory at Autódromo Velo Città, a fitting achievement for one of motorsport’s most enduring figures.
Looking Ahead to Abu Dhabi’s Season Finale
With Zandvoort nearing its end, attention is already turning to Yas Marina Circuit, which will once again close the season from December 4–6, 2025. Known for its high-speed straights and technical precision, Yas remains one of F1’s most iconic venues. With only a handful of points separating Piastri and Norris, Abu Dhabi could decide the championship just as it has for champions like Vettel and Rosberg in years past.
Fans can also look forward to enhanced race-week experiences in Abu Dhabi, including complimentary access to top attractions like Louvre Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World. The Garden on Yas area will offer live DJs, food zones, and After-Race Concert access, giving spectators new ways to enjoy the action.
As Formula 1 continues to evolve with sustainability efforts, new teams, and shifting rivalries both Zandvoort and Yas Marina stand as pivotal chapters in the sport’s unfolding story. The Dutch Grand Prix may be nearing its farewell, but its legacy will continue to shape the championship’s future.
