Max Verstappen is urging the Dutch government to take a more active role in supporting motorsport. With Formula 1 set to race for the final time at Zandvoort this month, the Dutch driver says more needs to be done to ensure the sport continues to thrive in the country after the grand prix ends.
But now that the race has reached its last edition at the circuit, Verstappen says keeping motorsport alive will depend on more than just his own success. In an interview with Formule 1, he emphasized the need to develop new talent to maintain public interest.
Verstappen acknowledged the government needs to step in. He told the magazine that support is crucial, and people should see the value of motorsport. He said the Dutch public has already been shown what the sport can achieve, but sustaining it requires ongoing effort.
The Dutch GP came back to the calendar in 2021, with Verstappen’s backing seen as essential. Bernie Ecclestone recently confirmed the race would not have happened without the four-time world champion. Now, Verstappen is pushing for policies that will help motorsport stay strong in the Netherlands.
He warned that Germany’s situation shows the risks of not maintaining proper support. The country has a proud motorsport history, including Schumacher’s era, but no current Formula 1 race. Verstappen described this as a contradiction, noting Germany’s green policies clash with its legacy of big car manufacturers.
Verstappen praised Spain as a better model. He said the country provides good backing for young riders and racing venues. ‘In Spain, we see how it can be done,’ he said. ‘There is a lot of support for motorcycle drivers and circuits.’