Dutch Grand Prix

I had little idea what to expect when I rolled up for my first Dutch GP at Zandvoort in 2021 but I left impressed. Impressed by the track and the surrounds but more so by the Dutch fans. They were on par with the most enthusiastic and passionate fans I’ve seen and just shaded the boisterous Italian Tifosi.

Of course most of the fans were decked out in orange in support of their hometown here Max Verstappen and they all embraced the thumping dance music that rang out across the track.

The circuit is located on the beach in Zandvoort, a small town 43 kilometres from the Netherlands capital, Amsterdam.

The track boasts the longest distance between the hospitality paddock and the garages (200+ metres) which allows those in the grandstand on the other side of the track, the chance to see the drivers heading to and from the garages, mostly on scooters.

If you have Paddock Club tickets you might be able to make your way to the pitlane-entry-end of the paddock and glimpse the drivers arriving, otherwise your best chance is at the main entrance near the Ferris Wheel.

Public transport is the best option for spectators to access the track as the roads into the town are blocked to all but official F1 traffic throughout the event. The train station is a 15 minute walk from the main entrance.

There are few quality hotels in the town, the closest and largest being the Hotel NH Collection which is at the main entrance to the track. This is where many of the drivers and a number of teams stay. And even though it’s just a short walk to the paddock, all the F1 drivers drive or ride in.

There are numerous 3 and 4-star hotels near the airport at more reasonable prices. These are closer to the track than Amsterdam but may not offer the public transport convenience that Amsterdam does.

If you’re staying in Amsterdam you’ll love the social scene. The bicycle parking stations will amaze you and of course, the red light area draws plenty of punters.

I am a big fan of this race. See you there.