Assen: from MotoGP venue to F1 fallback? How the Dutch circuit is positioning itself for a Grand Prix future

The Formula 1 calendar is undergoing a significant transformation. After six years of hosting the Dutch Grand Prix, Circuit Zandvoort will bid farewell to the sport in 2026, with the final race doubling as a sprint event. This decision marks the conclusion of a partnership that seemed sustainable, particularly given the passionate fan support and Max Verstappen's continued dominance at his home circuit. However, financial realities have forced a difficult reckoning, and Algarve International Circuit in Portugal will assume the traditional summer slot from 2027 onwards.

The departure has left Dutch motorsport stakeholders scrambling for solutions. While TT Circuit Assen initially dismissed speculation about a potential rescue bid, the venue has since taken a decidedly different approach—one centered on careful preparation rather than hasty commitment.

Assen's strategic positioning: more than just speculation

Unlike the immediate denials that characterized earlier discussions, TT Circuit Assen has been systematically studying the requirements for an FIA Grade 1 license since September. This isn't mere speculation; it represents concrete infrastructure planning designed to position the venue as a viable alternative should Formula 1 return to the Netherlands.

Circuit director Mark van Aalderen articulated the vision with measured pragmatism: "We want to be ready when a concrete application comes in to host a Grand Prix in Assen." Crucially, he emphasized that Assen would operate from a position of structural support rather than promotional burden. "If that were to happen, we would only act as facilitators, not as organizers or funders."

This distinction is significant. Unlike Zandvoort's financial struggles—which reportedly stemmed from insufficient state support and escalating hosting costs—Assen is strategically avoiding the role of primary promoter, instead positioning itself as an infrastructure provider.

Technical requirements: a manageable path forward

The primary hurdle remains safety compliance and operational certification. Van Aalderen indicated that necessary modifications would likely be limited in scope, focusing predominantly on safety infrastructure rather than circuit layout alterations. "For now, it seems that it will mainly involve changes related to safety," he noted, adding that "the circuit layout itself is not expected to require modification."

This represents a significant advantage over potential alternative venues. Assen's existing infrastructure—including grandstands accommodating over 50,000 spectators—already provides a foundation upon which to build. The circuit's history as a MotoGP venue ensures the foundational systems meet international motorsport standards, reducing the comprehensive overhaul that would be required at less-developed facilities.

Historical context: lessons from 2018

Assen's current positioning isn't without precedent. The circuit previously pursued FIA Grade 1 status in 2018, when it underwent formal FIA inspection. However, the process ultimately favored Circuit Zandvoort, which secured the Dutch Grand Prix seat that began in 2021. This historical context adds texture to the current situation—Assen isn't chasing an entirely new objective, but rather returning to a previously mapped objective with refined strategy and different market conditions.

The intervening years have proven instructive. Zandvoort's financial difficulties underscore the challenges of hosting modern Formula 1 events, particularly in markets where government funding is insufficient and ticket revenue alone cannot sustain operational costs.

The reserve venue concept: a pragmatic alternative

Beyond the prospect of hosting a permanent Grand Prix slot, former Zandvoort chairman Jim Vermeulen has advocated for an alternative positioning: Assen should register as a reserve venue with Formula 1. This proposal carries practical merit, particularly given Formula 1's evolving scheduling complexities and weather-related contingencies.

"They need to let everyone know that, if needed, they can organize a Grand Prix within four to six weeks," Vermeulen suggested. Such rapid deployment capability would provide Formula 1 with geographic and logistical insurance, particularly in a European context where unforeseen circumstances might necessitate venue substitution.

Conclusion: preparation meets opportunity

Assen's measured approach reflects genuine strategic sophistication. Rather than making speculative bids or dismissing opportunity outright, the circuit is methodically preparing infrastructure and certifications while explicitly avoiding the promotional and financial burdens that undermined Zandvoort's sustainability. Whether this positioning yields a permanent Grand Prix slot, a reserve venue designation, or neither remains uncertain—but Assen has clearly signaled its readiness for whatever opportunities the post-Zandvoort landscape presents.