DTM - Zandvoort

The DTM series returns to CM.com Circuit Zandvoort for another season of GT3 racing at one of Europe's most distinctive venues. Zandvoort hosts the DTM championship on the Dutch coast, where drivers compete on a challenging circuit built within natural sand dunes. The event features two sprint races across the weekend, bringing together multiple manufacturers and talented drivers from across motorsport.

Circuit Zandvoort Details

CM.com Circuit Zandvoort sits in the dunes north of Zandvoort town, approximately 35 kilometers west of Amsterdam. The track stretches 4.259 kilometers and includes 14 corners that test driver skill and precision. The circuit holds FIA Grade 1 status and can accommodate up to 105,000 spectators.

The layout features banked corners and elevation changes that make Zandvoort stand out from modern racing facilities. The famous Tarzan corner uses steep banking to create unique racing opportunities. The track flows through natural dune formations near the North Sea coast, giving it character that differs from purpose-built circuits.

Race Format and Technical Specifications

DTM weekends at Zandvoort include two sprint races. Each race runs for approximately 55 minutes plus one additional lap. Saturday races require one mandatory pit stop, while Sunday races feature two mandatory pit stops. Teams use these stops for tire changes only.

The series uses GT3-specification race cars that produce over 500 horsepower. Teams manage limited tire allocations throughout the weekend, making strategy choices important for race results. The cars feature advanced aerodynamic packages adapted to GT3 regulations.

Manufacturers and Drivers

The DTM grid includes GT3 cars from nine manufacturers: Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG, and Porsche. This manufacturer diversity creates varied competition on track.

The series attracts experienced racing drivers, including former champions, race winners, and drivers with Formula 1 backgrounds. The competitive field ensures close racing throughout the weekend.

Racing History at Zandvoort

Circuit Zandvoort opened on August 7, 1948, establishing itself as a significant European racing venue. The track hosted Formula One from 1952 to 1985 and welcomed F1 back to its calendar in 2021. DTM has competed at Zandvoort since 2001, making it a long-standing fixture on the championship schedule.

The partnership between DTM and Circuit Zandvoort extends through 2026, with options for racing until 2028. Zandvoort consistently ranks among the most popular locations on the DTM calendar for both competitors and fans.

What Defines This Event

Zandvoort offers a different challenge compared to many modern circuits. The undulating track surface and fast corners demand concentration and bravery from drivers. The location near the beach adds to the venue's appeal, combining high-level racing with coastal atmosphere.

The circuit's origins trace back to Mayor H. van Alphen, who believed motor racing could transform the town's future. That vision created a lasting motorsport venue that continues to host premier racing series. The track maintains its old-school character while meeting contemporary safety standards.

GT3 racing at Zandvoort produces close battles as drivers navigate the technical sections and manage their equipment across the race distance. The combination of circuit layout, manufacturer variety, and driver talent creates competitive racing throughout the weekend.