Verstappen urges Dutch government to protect the Netherlands’ motorsport future

Verstappen calls for greater support

Max Verstappen has urged the Dutch government to take a more active role in supporting motorsport, warning that the Netherlands needs a stronger structure to maintain its supply of talented drivers.

The call comes at a sensitive moment for Dutch racing. Zandvoort is preparing to host the Dutch Grand Prix for the final time, while Verstappen’s own future remains unclear. After a decade in which his success transformed the profile of motorsport in the Netherlands, the country faces the challenge of sustaining that momentum beyond its leading figure.

Verstappen has also been part of a wider period of Dutch success, alongside drivers such as Nyck de Vries in Formula E and the World Endurance Championship. Racing has become hugely popular in the country, which had not previously been regarded as a major motorsport nation despite producing several strong drivers.

However, Verstappen made clear that preserving that popularity cannot be his personal responsibility. “That’s not in my hands,” he told Formule1.nl. “Popularity depends mainly on the talent coming up, and hopefully someone from that group will make it to Formula 1. Because that’s what creates the biggest buzz. Chance always plays a role. Just look at Germany in the past.”

His comments echo his broader concerns about the need for sustained support as his own career develops. Verstappen has previously identified Red Bull’s priority before the summer break, but his latest message is focused on the long-term health of Dutch motorsport rather than the performance of a single team.

Germany offers a warning

Verstappen pointed to Germany as an example of how quickly interest can fade. The country once had several Formula 1 drivers, a grand prix and a huge fan base. Yet, despite Mercedes’ dominance in the sport, German motorsport has experienced a rapid decline in attention.

He hopes the Netherlands can avoid a similar outcome and believes government backing will be important at key moments.

“Hopefully, the government will also step up to the plate,” Verstappen added. “Support is important at certain times. Everyone has seen what motorsports can bring. Just look at Germany.”

Spain shows what is possible

Spain, by contrast, remains an example of sustained commitment. Verstappen highlighted its consistent flow of Formula 1 drivers, grand prix and government support for racers and racetracks.

He acknowledged that building such a system is difficult because motorsport requires significant infrastructure and investment. “Auto racing isn’t like soccer. It’s easier to lay down a small grass field than to build a racetrack,” he said.

For Verstappen, the principle is straightforward: if a country gives motorsport enough attention and priority, it can create opportunities for talented drivers to develop and reach their full potential.