"I had to look forward to it for 35 years, so I can wait another year," says Zandvoort boss with race officially cancelled for 2020
Thursday 28 May 2020 11:11, UK
The return of the Dutch Grand Prix will now have to wait until next year after organisers confirmed the postponed event will not be rescheduled when the 2020 season begins.
The race at a revamped Zandvoort track had been due to take place on May 3 but was called off due to the coronavirus pandemic, one of 10 grands prix to have been postponed or cancelled.
Organisers confirmed on Thursday morning that it was "no longer possible to hold a race with fans present this year". The race is returning to the calendar for the first time since 1985.
"We were completely ready for this first race and we still are," said Jan Lammers, the race's sports director and former F1 driver.
"An unbelievable achievement has been made thanks to all the fans, the companies and the governments involved. We and Formula 1 have investigated the potential to hold a rescheduled race this year without spectators, but we would like to celebrate this moment, the return of Formula 1 in Zandvoort, together with our racing fans in the Netherlands.
"We ask everyone to be patient. I had to look forward to it for 35 years, so I can wait another year."
F1 is hoping to start the season with the Austrian GP on July 5 - the first of a double header at the Red Bull Ring.
Sky Sports understands that Hungary may now take place before two rounds at Silverstone, with two races at the British GP venue taking place at the start of August.
Spain, Belgium and Monza are also in the frame for the opening European portion of the season.
