Normally, most Formula 1 tracks run with an 80 km/h limit, but Zandvoort has always been lower because of its narrow and enclosed pit lane. That slower speed made stops take much longer, so teams usually avoided making more than one. On a circuit where overtaking is already tough, that meant strategy was often limited to a safe one-stop approach.

This change is part of a bigger push from the FIA to make races more exciting. Earlier in the season, there were concerns that too many grands prix were being won from pole position, leading to suggestions that F1 risked turning into more of a qualifying championship.

To combat this, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali held talks with Pirelli’s motorsport director Mario Isola about ways to increase on-track action. Ideas include using softer compounds, creating bigger gaps between tyre choices, and adjusting pit lane speed limits to make extra stops more attractive.

READ MORE: FIA looking into raising F1 pit lane speed limit

It is understood that Singapore is also being looked at for a similar increase ahead of its race later this year. Like Zandvoort, it runs with a reduced pit lane limit because of its layout, and a jump up to 80 km/h could help mix up the tactics there too. The FIA has been consulting teams on the matter as part of an ongoing review of how best to improve the racing.

To support the change at Zandvoort, Pirelli is bringing softer tyres than last year. Instead of the harder C1, C2 and C3 set, teams will now have the C2, C3 and C4 as hard, medium and soft. These tyres wear faster but provide more grip, which could tempt teams into trying two-stop strategies. It is also a special weekend for Pirelli as this will be their 500th Formula 1 grand prix.

This will also be the second to last Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort before the race disappears from the calendar again. Last year Lando Norris claimed victory for McLaren, but with the new pit lane speed, softer tyres and rain on the weather forecast, the 2025 edition could be far less predictable.