Return of Dutch Formula One GP Could Spell Doom for Another Circuit

With all the talk of the Netherlands returning to the Formula One calendar in 2020, there is speculation about the future of other grands prix. To get into the specifics, the organisers of the Belgian Grand Prix are considering their future options.

Ever since Red Bull driver Max Verstappen burst onto the scene, business at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps has been booming. Verstappen is half Dutch and half Belgian, so he gains the support from Belgian fans and Dutch fans who make the trip to Belgium.

However, the organisers at Spa are afraid that the forthcoming Dutch Grand Prix could adversely affect them. This is especially with regard to the crowd size irrespective of their places on the Formula One schedule.

Back in 2018, the Belgian GP signed a three-year contract extension to keep Formula One at Spa until at least the 2021 season. However, a certain clause stated that if Holland again hosted a race during that period, Belgium would be able to apply for a reduction in the hosting fee.

Now, the Belgian Formula One GP race promoters are seeking aid on their next course of action. They are trying to work out the kind of impact Holland’s return will have for them. In spite of the recent upsurge in revenue, the authorities still need to tread carefully. This is because the race itself at Spa is a loss-making event. The circuit relies on subsidies from the local government to even take place.

The good news is that the economic impact of F1 on the Belgian region of Wallonia is highly positive. Unfortunately, if that is no longer the case in 2020, it will again raise questions over the future of the Belgian Grand Prix at one of motorsport’s most famous venues. Hopefully, the future of the Belgian Formula One Grand Prix is secured soon, as it is a firm favourite among many F1 drivers.