Zandvoort Mayor Says Goodbye to Dutch GP

As the Dutch Grand Prix prepares to run for the last time, Zandvoort Mayor David Moolenburgh says it's the energy of race weekend he'll miss most of all. "The buzz and the crowds. As mayor, I saw how involved the village was with the event and how proud people were. I will really miss that vibe," he said Thursday, just days before Sunday's farewell race.

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A Bittersweet Goodbye
Moolenburgh didn't hide his disappointment at seeing the event come to a close. "It is extremely unfortunate. I have always considered it a gift that we were able to host the event," he said.

Still, he admitted he'd always known the arrangement wouldn't last forever, saying he had accepted from the start that the race would only be temporary. He also made clear that he understands why organizers ultimately chose to end it.

Looking back, the mayor believes Zandvoort has come out ahead thanks to Formula 1's presence.

"It has increased our profile and created a great atmosphere," he explained. Over six editions, the race brought real financial benefits to the region, with hotels and the wider hospitality industry seeing much of that boost. Beyond the money, Moolenburgh pointed to the town's growing international pull, drawing in fans from countries where motorsport holds a special place in people's hearts.



Lasting Changes Beyond the Track
The benefits, according to Moolenburgh, go well beyond a few thrilling race weekends. He noted that hosting the Grand Prix pushed forward major upgrades to local infrastructure, including improvements to the railway line and station, longer platforms, and a stronger electrical network for the trains. "Those are lasting improvements," he said, adding that these changes will continue to serve th.

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