Shareholders contributed EUR 20 million as the Dutch general partner departs.

      "Three consecutive sold-out events are crucial for our profitability."

      The decision to terminate the Dutch Grand Prix post-2026 is under fresh scrutiny, as it has come to light that the shareholders supporting the Zandvoort project distributed a EUR 20 million dividend, despite claiming financial uncertainty as a primary reason for not extending their Formula 1 contract. This year marks the final Formula 1 visit to Zandvoort, concluding a highly successful six-race series since the event's return in 2021. Organizers have frequently cited escalating costs, the risk of declining attendance, and the absence of government subsidies as reasons for deeming further continuation beyond this point unfeasible.

      However, the Dutch outlet RTL Z reports that in 2024, shareholders allocated EUR 20 million from the Dutch GP's financial reserves, a substantial part of its safety net, while public concerns regarding long-term sustainability were being highlighted. Race director Robert van Overdijk previously mentioned to NOS that consistently selling out the venue is key to profitability. "Three sold-out events in a row are vital for us to stay profitable," he stated. "It’s a delicate balance. A temporary drop isn’t too serious, but we cannot afford to continually attract fewer attendees."

      Financial documents reviewed by RTL Z indicate that the cost of hosting the Grand Prix in 2024 was approximately EUR 70 million. However, by the end of the year, reserves totaled only 3.8 million, following the 20 million payout to shareholders. The Dutch GP organization defended the dividend, asserting that it was proportional to the associated risks. A spokesperson remarked, "In terms of entrepreneurial risk, the dividend payment—issued for the first time—pales in comparison to the annual expenses and risks related to organizing the Dutch Grand Prix." The organizers further claimed that the 20 million covered all editions up to and including 2024 but declined to confirm whether another dividend was disbursed for 2025.