Sport marketer Chris Woerts and television personality Johan Derksen have revealed that TT Circuit Assen has applied for the permits needed to host Formula 1.
Woerts has argued that the Drenthe-based track is far better equipped for a grand prix event than Zandvoort, which sits in the North Holland dunes.
TT Circuit Assen currently holds a Grade 2 FIA license, though circuit management is actively pursuing an upgrade to the highest classification.
Woerts pointed to the venue’s proven ability to handle enormous crowds as a key indicator of its readiness for Formula 1.
“This weekend promises another thrilling motor extravaganza at Assen, with over 200,000 expected and fans eagerly anticipating MotoGP,” Woerts told Dutch television show Vandaag Inside.
He added that the step toward Formula 1 is a natural progression for the circuit given its current ambitions.
“The circuit has even applied for a Grade 1 license, which would eventually allow it to host Formula 1 races,” Woerts explained on the programme.
Johan Derksen offered his full backing to the proposal while also praising sport promoter Lee van Dam for his work in pushing the project forward.
Van Dam has long been working to bring Formula 1 to Drenthe and is now focused on positioning Assen as a reserve venue for the Formula One Management.
Derksen highlighted the venue’s logistical advantages as a decisive factor over its coastal rival, whose contract expires at the end of this year.
“With Zandvoort’s contract ending next year, they’re shifting the focus to Assen. The grandstands are already in place, a highway runs right by, and a train station and airport is only a minute away,” Derksen explained.
He added that projected attendance figures underline just how commercially attractive the Assen proposal could become for Formula 1 stakeholders.
“There’s little need for further investment. Their plans have even estimated an attendance of 400,000, with fans driven by German interest,” Derksen continued.
Woerts was equally direct when assessing the infrastructure already in place at the Drenthe circuit compared to the existing Dutch Grand Prix venue.
“A Grade 1 is essential for a Formula 1 license, and they’ve already applied for it. They’re bound to get it because the paddock is outstanding,” Woerts said.
He went further, delivering a blunt verdict on Zandvoort in comments that are sure to generate debate across the Dutch motorsport community.
“It is actually a much nicer circuit than that old junk in Zandvoort,” Woerts stated plainly on Vandaag Inside.
Derksen echoed those infrastructure concerns and recalled what he sees as fundamental flaws in Zandvoort’s ability to manage grand prix traffic volumes.
“It’s impractical – getting there by car is nearly impossible, and even the local train won’t cut it,” Derksen concluded, reinforcing the case for a move inland to Assen.