The four-time Formula 1 world champion believes the future of Dutch motorsport depends on developing the next generation of drivers, especially with the Dutch Grand Prix preparing to stage its final race at Zandvoort later this month.
Verstappen said the long-term popularity of the sport would rely on new talent reaching Formula 1 rather than on his own success.
“That’s not in my hands,” Verstappen told Formule1.nl. “Popularity depends mainly on the talent coming up, and hopefully someone from that group will make it to Formula 1.
“Because that’s what creates the biggest buzz. Chance always plays a role. Just look at Germany in the past.”
Germany, once one of Formula 1’s strongest markets with several drivers, a home Grand Prix and huge crowds, has seen interest in the sport decline in recent years despite Mercedes remaining one of the championship’s leading teams.
Verstappen hopes the Netherlands can avoid a similar situation by giving motorsport greater backing.
“Hopefully, the government will also step up to the plate,” he said. “Support is important at certain times. Everyone has seen what motorsports can bring. Just look at Germany.
“Everything has to be very green, but at the same time, it’s also the home of the major automakers. That’s a balancing act.
“Fortunately, they still have great races there, like the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring, but even those kinds of events are already difficult to organise.”
The Red Bull driver pointed to Spain as an example of how consistent investment can help a country remain competitive in motorsport.
“It’s difficult to establish a structure,” Verstappen said. “Auto racing isn’t like soccer. It’s easier to lay down a small grass field than to build a racetrack.
“Money, of course, plays a huge role. In Spain, for example, we see how it can be done – how much support there is there for racers and racetracks.
“Of course, they have more space and opportunities there, but there’s also simply more attention and priority given to it. And you see that in many Olympic sports as well.
“If a country is truly committed, it can create the opportunities for talented athletes to develop and reach their full potential.”
The Netherlands has enjoyed a motorsport boom during Verstappen’s rise to Formula 1 stardom, while the success of drivers such as Nyck de Vries has also helped raise the sport’s profile. However, with the Dutch Grand Prix set to disappear from the calendar after this year’s event, Verstappen believes continued support will be vital to keep the country’s motorsport future on track.
The next Formula 1 race is the Dutch Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort, which takes place from 21 to 23 August.
