Claims of Serious Zandvoort Flood Damage Threatening F1 Round Proven False

High-profile UK tabloids have been caught promoting a misleading narrative after sharing a photo originally posted on X (formerly Twitter) by user @Lisaa_xlando.

The outlets reported that Zandvoort Circuit had suffered significant flood damage overnight between the 21st and 22nd of July, claiming circuit management was in a “race against time” to repair the track ahead of the Formula 1 round in late August.

Zandvoort looks in perfect conditions right now
@Lisaa_xlando pic.twitter.com/2w8qPrKXJZ

— Holiness (@F1BigData) July 21, 2025

In reality, their cited Dutch source clearly and accurately stated that the circuit sustained “no structural damage”. The incident was limited to an overflow from the circuit’s primary catchment area, which was quickly managed by diverting excess water into a dedicated overflow reservoir.

The majority of the disruption seen in the original footage was due to localised erosion along the fence line and across a sandbank, where water carved a path towards the edge of the circuit. While mud and debris reached the tarmac, no structural damage occurred, and repairs were completed swiftly.

The removal of the original post also sparked speculation that the image had been AI-generated. However, the original poster maintained that the image was genuine, while admitting they had shared it without obtaining prior permission.

Zandvoort Circuit management quickly responded to clarify the situation amid growing online speculation fuelled by the media coverage.

“Yesterday’s heavy rain sparked some fake news about damage to the circuit.”

“Early this morning our team inspected the entire layout. While some sand and water had accumulated on parts of the track, it was promptly removed.”

“The surface is dry, clean, and 100 percent race-ready. In fact, since this morning, the F1 Academy has been out on track for their scheduled practice sessions without any issues.”

“All sessions are running exactly as planned. See you at the circuit!”

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Despite the circuit’s swift clarification, the initial high-profile reporting led to widespread circulation of the false claims across social media and various online platforms.

It is understood that F1 Academy testing proceeded as scheduled on both the 22nd and 23rd of July, with no disruption or damage reported following the rainfall on the 21st.

While both original outlets have since amended or posted correction stories, the incident underscores the importance of relying on verified motorsport media sources, rather than sensationalist tabloid outlets which may be prone to exaggeration and inaccurate claims.

Ondertussen op het F1 Circuit van Zandvoort#MaxVerstappen #Redbull #McLaren pic.twitter.com/ToMhPj7vQd

— Jef (@rallyjef3) July 22, 2025