Dutch GP a step closer after €4million backing plan approved

A Dutch Grand Prix has taken a step closer to becoming a reality after local government officials voted in favour of giving the project a €4million grant.

Rumours of a return to the country have been rife since Max Verstappen's explosive arrival on the Formula 1 scene and plans to hold a race at Zandvoort have made further progress with the announcement.

Zandvoort has exclusive rights to negotiate a race with FOM until March 31st which includes a complete plan detailing costs, funding and a date for the race, something which is already in place according to sporting director of the project, Jan Lammers.

It isn't just the circuit that is eager to see F1 return to the Netherlands, local government officials hope that with the approval of the funding, a positive message will be sent out indicating the serious nature of the bid.

"The grant is really intended to open up the circuit," Bianca Galesloot, the municipality's spokeswoman, told GPblog.com.

"We want to ensure optimum accessibility and safety, among other things by developing a mobility and traffic plan together with partners and the province.

“The circuit is negotiating with FOM and we are not part of that negotiation. However, the condition from the government is met and we have sent a signal. We believe in it and we have just gotten started.

"The main question now is: "how can we tackle this smartly?" Think of means to limit traffic, such as tickets in combination with hotels or public transport."