Formula 1 returns from its summer break with a trip to the Netherlands, and this year’s Dutch Grand Prix carries extra weight. Zandvoort is set to drop off the calendar after 2026, making this the final opportunity for fans to see F1 machinery tackle the circuit’s famous banked Hugenholtz corner and the high-speed Scheivlak sweep. To add to the occasion, the event is a sprint weekend, meaning more on-track action across the three days.
Why Zandvoort’s farewell matters
Zandvoort has been a fan favourite since its return to the calendar in 2021, with its narrow, undulating layout and the unique challenge of its banked corners. The circuit’s absence from next year’s schedule marks the end of an era, at least for now. The Dutch Grand Prix has consistently delivered dramatic races, and with the championship battle heating up, the final edition promises to be a fitting send-off.
Sprint weekend format
As a sprint weekend, the traditional practice and qualifying structure is condensed. Friday features a single practice session followed by sprint qualifying, which sets the grid for Saturday’s sprint race. Saturday then sees the sprint race itself, followed by qualifying for the main event on Sunday. This format gives fans more competitive action and adds strategic intrigue to the weekend.
Full Dutch GP schedule
Here are the key session times for the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, provided in US, UK, and local (CET) time zones.
Friday, August 21
- Practice: 3:30am PDT / 6:30am EDT / 11:30am UK / 12:30pm local
- Sprint Qualifying: 7:30am PDT / 10:30am EDT / 3:30pm UK / 4:30pm local
Saturday, August 22
- Sprint: 3:00am PDT / 6:00am EDT / 11:00am UK / 12:00pm local
- Grand Prix Qualifying: 7:00am PDT / 10:00am EDT / 3:00pm UK / 4:00pm local
Sunday, August 23
- Dutch Grand Prix: 6:00am PDT / 9:00am EDT / 2:00pm UK / 3:00pm local
All times are subject to change, so fans are advised to check official channels closer to the event.
How to watch the Dutch GP in the US
In the United States, the 2026 F1 season is broadcast exclusively on Apple TV. Apple has launched a dedicated F1 channel, giving subscribers access to every session live, including all practice, qualifying, and race coverage. Beyond the main feed, viewers can enjoy additional features such as 22 onboard driver cameras, live timing, and driver trackers, providing an immersive experience. Pre- and post-race programming is also included, along with a full catch-up and highlights library for those who miss any action.
To watch the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, US fans can sign up for Apple TV and tune in from August 21-23. The service is available across Apple devices and many smart TVs, streaming boxes, and web browsers.
What to expect at Zandvoort
The Zandvoort circuit is known for its challenging mix of high-speed corners and elevation changes. The banked Hugenholtz and the flat-out Scheivlak are standout sections that reward brave drivers. Overtaking can be difficult, but the sprint race format often shakes up the order, and with the championship on the line, expect no quarter given.
As the final Dutch Grand Prix for the foreseeable future, the atmosphere is likely to be electric, with the famous orange-clad fans hoping for a home victory. Max Verstappen will be determined to give his home crowd a memorable send-off, but the competition will be fierce.
With the summer break over, the 2026 season resumes with a bang. Don’t miss a moment of the action at Zandvoort.
