It has been known for some time that Zandvoort, and with it the Netherlands, will soon leave the F1 circuit. There will be two more Grand Prix at this circuit, and then… Then, after initial hesitation, Assen has now announced that it would like to take over the baton!
The situation is not simple, however. Europe and the true traditions of Formula 1 mean less and less to the current management of the racing circus, (unfortunately) yet Arjan Bos, president of the Assen circuit, has indicated that they would like to be partners in the (otherwise terrible) rotation system that F1 has devised.
"Of course it is our big dream to bring Formula 1 to Assen. I think when you have invested so much money in the circuit and you enjoy the support of the audience, then - if possible - we definitely have to try. That is exactly what we are doing and we are approaching this opportunity very positively. We will calmly assess what is needed to be able to actually bid, but it cannot be said yet that Zandvoort is saying goodbye and Assen is coming."
"We have to remain cautious. I don't know, we'll see if F1 really wants this race. I would like to hear Zandvoort's arguments as to why it's ending, and I also don't know Formula 1's ideas about the Netherlands. We know they want fewer European races and that they are thinking about Africa and India. We have to take these aspects into account as well," Bos mused.
