Verstappen excited by Dutch GP return at "iconic" Zandvoort

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen says he is excited for the return of the Dutch Grand Prix, which has been confirmed on the Formula 1 calendar for 2020.

Following months of negotiations, F1 has concluded a deal to bring the race back to Zandvoort for the first time in 35 years. The event’s return to the calendar from next season was announced on Tuesday, with F1 striking up a minimum three-year contract.

Verstappen, who has carried out a number of Red Bull demo events at the circuit in older F1 machinery in recent years, cannot wait to race at the venue for the first time since his Formula 3 days.

“It’s just an iconic, historic track” Verstappen said about the announcement.

“I have raced there before with F3 and it was a lot of fun. I compare the track a little bit with Suzuka because it’s designed by the same person so I can understand that the characteristics are a bit similar.

“It’s a pretty quick track and it’s always good and exciting to have new ones on the calendar.”

The Dutchman has had a heavy influence in the attempts to revive the race, following his rapid surge in popularity since making his F1 debut in 2015. 

Verstappen says Zandvoort’s track layout will prove “pretty challenging” for drivers in modern-day F1 machinery, but is relishing the prospect.

“I’ve done a few laps and donuts in an F1 car there too and the track was actually pretty challenging because you have a few banked corners, some places are very narrow and there’s no run off.

“It’s very cool, and with no run off, it’s quite hard to find the limit. On some other tracks it’s a bit easier but that also makes it more exciting.”