Porsche go Dutch
Due west of Amsterdam lies the coastal resort of Zandvoort, famous for its long sandy beaches, miles of grassy dunes and the improbable presence of a once-world-class racing circuit.
Officially opened in 1948, Circuit Park Zandvoort hosted its first Formula 1 Grand Prix in 1955, witnessing another virtuoso performance from Juan Manuel Fangio on his way to yet another world championship at the helm of his Mercedes W196. Beneath the towering dunes of Holland’s North Sea coast, this tight and challenging circuit with its fast bends and infamous Tarzan hairpin would be the venue for countless other great races throughout the glory days of the World Drivers and Formula 1 championships. Its final high-profile race was run in 1985, when Niki Lauda’s McLaren pipped teammate Alain Prost to victory by the narrowest of margins in a memorable swansong for what had become an outdated track in the increasingly demanding modern era.
Today, this remarkable venue plays to those historic strengths, hosting a variety of low-key and exclusive events including the Historic Grand Prix Zandvoort. In its sixth year, this is Holland’s answer to the Goodwood Revival, with a glorious array of priceless racing cars from various disciplines put through their paces across the sandy asphalt. These images highlight the magnificent collection of classic Porsches that were present at this year event. Photos: Porsche.