Three races that could replace Dutch Grand Prix as 'serious' discussions held over shock country hosting

Three countries could step in and replace the Dutch Grand Prix after it was announced that the race is Zandvoort will be dropped after the 2026 season.

The Dutch Grand Prix, which is the home race of four-time world champion Max Verstappen, will no longer be part of the calendar after 2026.

On Wednesday, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said: "All parties positively collaborated to find a solution to extend the race, with many options, including alternation or annual events on the table, and we respect the decision from the promoter to finish its amazing run in 2026.

"I want to thank all the team at the Dutch Grand Prix and the Municipality of Zandvoort who have been fantastic partners to Formula 1."

Although no replacement has been announced by F1, there are three countries which could be high on the shortlist.

Argentina

Thanks to Williams' decision to bring in Franco Colapinto mid-way through the 2024 season, the popularity of F1 has grown massively in Argentina.

In October, it was claimed that the Argentine government is looking into hosting an F1 race.

As reported by The Independent, the minister for tourism, environment and sport, Daniel Scioli, told Argentine outlet La Agencia de Viajes: "I spoke with President Javier Milei and the secretary-general of the presidency Karina Milei in order to coordinate all efforts so that Argentina can once again host a Formula 1 race."

South Africa

F1 last raced in South Africa back in 1993 and there have been calls for the sport to return to the country.

Last month, it was claimed that South Africa has been declared 'ready' to host a Grand Prix.

Former F1 star David Coulthard said after driving a Red Bull car around the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit: "Driving the RB7 here at Kyalami was unforgettable. With South Africa’s energy and Kyalami’s world-class track, it’s clear the country is ready to rejoin the F1 calendar."

Rwanda

Perhaps a country that not many have thought about, but Rwanda reportedly have a 'serious' proposal to host an F1 race.

F1 CEO Domeicalli said: "They are serious. They have presented a good plan and actually we have a meeting with them at the end of September. It will be on a permanent track."

It has been suggested that Rwanda held talks with the FIA at the Monaco Grand Prix earlier this year, and will host the FIA's annual Prize Giving Ceremony in Kigali in December.