Prince sells his share in Zandvoort ahead of the final Dutch Grand Prix.

      Prince Bernhard of Orange-Nassau has divested his interest in Circuit Zandvoort just weeks prior to the final Dutch Grand Prix. In 2016, the prince and his business partner Menno de Jong purchased the circuit and played a significant role in reinstating Formula 1 in the Netherlands in 2021 after a 36-year hiatus. This revival coincided with Max Verstappen’s ascent and the remarkable increase in Formula 1’s popularity in the country.

      The prince is now transferring his circuit interests, alongside investments in other businesses and properties, to his partners De Jong and Coen Groeneveld. "The mission is complete," he stated in a release. "We brought Formula 1 back to the Netherlands, and Zandvoort has been showcased on the world stage for six events. It doesn't get any better than this, and now it’s time to make a bold choice." He emphasized that he is handing over his interests to the partners with whom he developed the project.

      The financial terms of the sale have not been revealed, though the prince noted he will continue his involvement in motorsport while turning his attention to new ventures in artificial intelligence. The race on August 23 will mark Zandvoort’s last Formula 1 event. However, Verstappen is not particularly nostalgic about this impending farewell. "I’ve had many great moments there," the four-time world champion shared with Viaplay. "It’s nice that I have won that race several times. Formula 1 is leaving, but the circuit will still exist, so I can continue to drive there with other cars. Ultimately, not much will change for me."

      The Dutch driver expressed plans to wear a special helmet as a tribute to his home race. "I will certainly do my best. A nice helmet is coming, serving as a bit of a tribute to the Netherlands. That’s about all there is to it." When asked if Zandvoort’s iconic Scheivlak corner should be renamed in his honor, Verstappen humorously dismissed the notion, stating, "That’s not for me. Typically, those names are given after drivers have passed away, right? So, that conversation doesn’t need to happen with me."

      Zandvoort may also offer a brief reprieve from the less favorable energy-management racing that is expected at faster circuits under the 2026 regulations. Isack Hadjar remarked that the Hungarian race already felt more like traditional Formula 1 since drivers could utilize full power until the end of the straights. "It’s somewhat unfortunate that we assess the best circuits based on their energy efficiency," he commented. "Spa is one of the finest circuits, but it was among the most challenging for us to compete on. We anticipate that Zandvoort will be favorable as well, so we should enjoy it while we can before heading to Monza."