Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix, Zandvoort
Location
Zandvoort, Netherlands
Year
2021 – 2026
Products
Grandstands, stadiums and arenas
From 2021 to 2026, NUSSLI built the temporary spectator grandstands for the Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort. To mark the return of Formula 1 to the Dutch North Sea coast, three large grandstands with a total of approximately 35,000 seats were built, along with additional spectator areas beneath the grandstands. Due to the challenging site conditions in the dunes and the high technical demands placed on the structures, the project posed unique challenges in terms of planning, structural engineering, and assembly.
Formula 1 returned to Zandvoort
After a 36-year hiatus, Formula 1 returned to Zandvoort in 2021. The historic circuit is located directly on the Dutch North Sea coast and, with its fast corners, distinctive banked turns, and natural elevation changes, ranks among the most spectacular tracks on the racing calendar. For the return of the Heineken Dutch Grand Prix, a high-capacity infrastructure for tens of thousands of spectators had to be built in a short period of time. NUSSLI was responsible for constructing the temporary grandstands, thereby playing a key role in ensuring that fans could watch the race up close.
Temporary bleachers for maximum spectator capacity
For the Dutch Grand Prix, NUSSLI erected three temporary grandstands with a total of approximately 35,000 seats. Two NT grandstands each accommodated approximately 12,000 spectators. These were complemented by a premium grandstand with an additional 11,000 seats. Functional spectator areas with concession stands and restroom facilities were also created beneath all three grandstands. As a result, the temporary structures not only offered an excellent view of the racetrack but also provided the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable experience throughout the entire race weekend.
Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool
Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool
Safety Under Demanding Wind Loads
The Circuit Zandvoort’s location in the middle of the dunes posed special challenges for the structures. Due to its immediate proximity to the North Sea, the grandstands had to withstand significantly higher wind loads than at many other motorsports events. The grandstands, which are up to 14 meters high, were therefore designed to meet the strict requirements of a permanent structure. In addition to approximately 1,400 metric tons of construction material, NUSSLI also incorporated about 500 metric tons of ballast to ensure the necessary stability and safety under the demanding coastal conditions. Careful structural planning and precise assembly ensured safe operation during all racing events from 2021 to 2026.
Grandstands for Formula 1 and Other Racing Series
The Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix was one of many motorsports projects that NUSSLI has carried out worldwide. Whether Formula 1, Formula E, motorcycle racing, or other international racing events—wherever large spectator capacities, short construction times, and the highest safety standards are required, NUSSLI develops customized solutions for event organizers and racetracks. The experience gained from a wide variety of motorsports projects was continuously incorporated into the implementation at Zandvoort. The result was temporary Grandstands, which met the highest standards for safety, comfort, and functionality and, year after year, formed the foundation for a first-class spectator experience. Even at the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, at the MotoGP at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg as well as at the DTM at the Norisring in Nuremberg NUSSLI builds temporary spectator facilities for international motorsports events
