Dutch Grand Prix: Everything you need to know

Dutch GP

Dutch Grand Prix: Everything you need to know

F1 is going to Zandvoort!

Matthew Scott

Tuesday 14 May 2019 11:05 Updated: 11:09

The Dutch Grand Prix has been confirmed on the 2020 Formula 1 calendar, marking the race's return to the schedule for the first tie in 35 years. Zandvoort will host F1's return to the Netherlands next year, having done so in each of its previous stagings.

Max Verstappen's soaring popularity in his home country has prompted Liberty Media to cash in on the Red Bull star's status in the Netherlands.

With a Vietnam Grand Prix also debuting in 2020, next year is set to see some major changes to the sport.

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Dutch GP all but confirmed by Liberty Media

Here's everything you need to know about the Dutch race.

When will the Dutch Grand Prix take place?

The Dutch Grand Prix will reportedly be the first European race on the Formula 1 calendar of 2020, landing on the weekend of May 8-10.

Read: Dutch GP at Zandvoort could cause rail chaos

It has been reported that the Dutch race will replace the Spanish Grand Prix, which currently occupies this spot on the calendar.

When do Dutch Grand Prix tickets go on sale?

Tickets are not immediately available for the Dutch Grand Prix, although this will undoubtedly change when the planning for the 2020 season has been announced.

With Max Verstappen racing in his homeland for the first time, tickets are expected to be hot commodities.

As is the case at most races, prices will likely range from close to €100 to thousands of euros.

What will the Dutch Grand Prix schedule be?

It's impossible to know for usre, but looking at the current European schedule, we can estimate that the weekend schedule will look something like this:

First free practice: 11:00 - 12:30
Second free practice: 15:00 - 16:30
Third free practice: 12:00 - 13:00
Qualification: 15:00 - 16:00
Race: 15:10 - 17:10

All times local

Why is Formula 1 going to Zandvoort?

Zandvoort hosted the first Dutch Grand Prix in 1948 when the FIA established Formula 1 rules, the race did not feature in the World Championship until 1952, but its ties back to the origins of F1 are clear.

Of course, Liberty Media have been keen to trumpet these aspects of F1, and adding historic venues might become important with Silverstone, Monza and Hockenheim facing uncertain futures.

Verstappen's popularity is key to the decision. Chase Carey has previously spoken of wanting to jump on the 'Max Factor' in the Netherlands, where the Red Bull man is already one of the country's biggest sporting stars.

The track is a great challenge for drivers, with tight turns and gravel traps waiting to swallow up any mistakes.

Some adjustments will have to be made to encourage overtaking, which may be difficult, but according to co-owner of the circuit Prince Bernhard van Oranje this can be completed over the winter.