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 Grands Prix held at this track, and then... Then, after initial hesitation, Assen has now come forward to take over the baton!
However, the situation is not simple. The true traditions of Europe and Formula 1 mean less and less to the current management of the racing circus, (unfortunately) despite this, Arjan Bos, the president of the Assen circuit, has indicated that they would be happy to be replacement partners in the (otherwise terrible) rotation system invented by F1.
"Of course, it's a big dream of ours to bring Formula 1 to Assen. I think when you've invested so much money in a track and you have the support of the public, then - if possible - we should definitely try. That's exactly what we're doing and we're very positive about the opportunity. We'll calmly review what it takes to be able to compete in a meaningful way, but it's not yet clear that Zandvoort is leaving and Assen is coming in."
"We have to remain cautious. I don't know, we'll see if F1 would even want this race. I would also like to hear Zandvoort's arguments as to why they are quitting, and I don't know what Formula 1's plans are for the Netherlands. We know that they want fewer European races, that they are also thinking about Africa and India. We have to take these aspects into account as well," Bos mused.
