Dutch Formula 1 enthusiasts are reeling from sticker shock as ticket prices for the upcoming Miami Grand Prix reveal a staggering premium compared to their home race at Circuit Zandvoort.
An investigation by the Algemeen Dagblad newspaper has exposed a dramatic price disparity, with access to the Miami International Autodrome costing fans nearly four times the amount of a Zandvoort weekend pass. The report highlights how a general admission ticket for the Florida event is priced at a jaw-dropping $590 (£470), a figure that alone surpasses the entire cost of a basic weekend ticket in the Netherlands.
The Hard Rock Stadium Premium
The Miami Grand Prix, set around the Hard Rock Stadium, represents the glitzy, new era of Formula 1. However, this glamour comes at a profound cost. While the passionate orange army of Max Verstappen fans can enjoy a weekend at Zandvoort for approximately €270 (£230), their American counterpart demands a minimum of $1,400 (£1,115) for a comparable experience.
This price hike isn't limited to basic admission. The report found that premium hospitality packages in Miami reach astronomical figures, soaring to around $11,000 (£8,760) per person—a sum that starkly contrasts with the more accessible pricing structure of European circuits.
A Growing Divide in F1 Accessibility
This investigation underscores a growing concern within the sport: the increasing financial barrier to entry for the average fan. The proliferation of 'destination' Grands Prix in major global cities like Miami, Las Vegas, and Singapore often prioritises high-end corporate hospitality over traditional, grassroots supporter access.
The price comparison between Zandvoort and Miami reveals a tale of two different philosophies. One race caters to the die-hard, fanatical supporters, while the other appears tailored for a luxury, high-net-worth audience, potentially pricing out the very fans who form the backbone of the sport's global following.
