American Series Eye European Debut: Zandvoort in the Spotlight
Zandvoort, Netherlands – For the first time ever, the possibility of bringing a top-tier American racing series to Europe might become reality — and Circuit Zandvoort is leading the conversation.
Circuit Zandvoort’s general director, Robert van Overdijk, confirmed that both NASCAR and IndyCar have already visited the Dutch venue for exploratory talks. “Running an American racing series at the highest level in Europe has never happened before. ‘Are they interested? Let’s just say there is interest,’” Van Overdijk revealed.
Why Zandvoort Is a Natural Choice
With Formula 1 set to depart after 2026, Zandvoort is keen to fill the void with a new marquee event. The circuit’s layout features steeply banked turns—the Hugenholtzbocht and Arie Luyendykbocht—that align well with the demands of heavy NASCAR Cup cars. Van Overdijk emphasized the need for any replacement series to deliver spectacle without aiming to replicate F1’s scale. NASCAR and IndyCar, with their unique styles, fit that vision.
NASCAR vs. IndyCar: Which One Has the Edge?
IndyCar’s advantages: Offers greater flexibility due to a lighter schedule, easing the logistical hurdles of an international round. Has deeper roots in Europe via a pool of European drivers and growing broadcast penetration. NASCAR’s potential value proposition: Brought its Euro series (EuroNASCAR) to Zandvoort before, with real on-track stock car racing in 2011. Its historic Mexico City Cup race showcased the brand’s ability to draw massive crowds abroad. Fan perspectives: Reactions are mixed. Some see NASCAR as too American, with logistics and European weather posing steep challenges. One fan asked: “I have to wonder what’s NASCAR’s plan to operate internationally.” Others lean toward IndyCar, citing its European driver connections as an advantage: “IndyCar makes way more sense considering how much of the field is European.”
What’s Next for Zandvoort?
The circuit has only four no-sound-limit weekends per year, and one becomes available in 2027, opening a window for a major new series. Van Overdijk is clear that spectacle is key, and that neither NASCAR nor IndyCar would need to match F1’s scale to succeed: “It has to provide spectacle … Whether that’s IndyCar or NASCAR … I think both are spectacular and you can create a very cool show around them.”
Final Lap
If things progress, Zandvoort could become the site of a pioneering European race featuring NASCAR or IndyCar. As Formula 1 exits, the circuit is casting its net wider—seeking a replacement that brings its own brand of thrill. Whether it becomes a bold IndyCar experiment or a groundbreaking NASCAR Cup event, a new era may dawn on the Dutch dunes.
