The Dutch fans have proved the most loyal to their team in the A1 Grand Prix series and this has been rewarded with a race on home turf as the opener for the 2006/07 season will be at the Zandvoort seaside circuit.
After a 21 year absence, Grand Prix racing will return to Zandvoort on 30 September – 1 October 2006, kicking off A1 Grand Prix’s second season. The event, organised by A1 Grand Prix, in close co-operation with Circuit Park Zandvoort and A1 Team Netherlands, will be the first time A1 Grand Prix has raced in the Netherlands.
A1 Team Netherlands’ seat holder, Jan Lammers, who was born in Zandvoort and began his racing career at the circuit under the guidance of the late Rob Slotemaker, is excited to secure a home race for himself and his team. For Lammers A1 Grand Prix is the best thing that has ever happened to motorsport. ‘Unlike all other motor sports, A1 Grand Prix is not solely about the individual driver but all about team effort and the honour of representing your country. It’s also a real family event and gives all the fans, young and old, the best in entertainment and value for money.’
Hans Ernst, director of Circuit Park Zandvoort, welcomed the opportunity to host an A1 Grand Prix event. ‘It is very special that A1 Grand Prix will come to Zandvoort. We expect it to attract huge crowds and it’s also a big boost for the Zandvoort economy in a period where the regular tourist season has ended. The race will attract millions of television viewers from all over the world and it is excellent promotion for the track, Zandvoort and the Netherlands.’