Race Planet Amsterdam will permanently close its doors on November 1, 2026. This marks the end, after more than 30 years, of a unique and iconic location for the Dutch indoor karting and leisure sector (Family Entertainment Center). While the facility was still profitable, the infrastructure did not lend itself to becoming future-proof.
“For the time being, no new branch will be opened with the 'proceeds'. The focus will be on Race Planet Delft and Race Planet Zandvoort,” a spokesperson stated when asked.
The decision to close was not taken lightly. In recent years, Race Planet Amsterdam has faced circumstances that made it increasingly difficult to continue the establishment in a healthy and future-proof manner. Among other things, sharply increased costs, rising personnel expenses, and limited opportunities to further improve the sustainability and development of the location played a significant role in this.
After exploring various future options, it was ultimately decided to sell the location and cease operations in Amsterdam. The branch is making way for the construction of new office units.
Race Planet was founded in 1993 by Michael Bleekemolen in Mijdrecht. That location was sold years ago. Race Planet was the first Dutch karting provider to establish an indoor facility, thereby enabling more recreational operation year-round. Furthermore, partly due to the addition of various activities, Race Planet is a pioneer in the field of Family Entertainment Centers in the Netherlands.
by Pretwerk.nl
Race Planet Amsterdam opened in the mid-nineties and grew in the years that followed into much more than just an indoor go-kart track. Visitors came for children's parties, family outings, groups of friends, and corporate meetings. The venue accommodated small parties, but also large events with sometimes as many as a thousand guests.
Over the years, the activities were further expanded to include bowling, laser tag, Roller Planet, Jimmy's Speelparadijs, karaoke, and other entertainment concepts. This created a versatile venue where different generations have enjoyed their parties, outings, and special moments.
“This is an emotional decision for us as a family and as an organization,” says Sebastiaan Bleekemolen. “Race Planet Amsterdam has been an important part of our lives for more than 30 years. Many guests came here as children and later returned with their own children. We look back on that with immense pride and gratitude.”
The closure also has major consequences for the employees. Race Planet will carefully discuss the possibilities with them in the coming period. Where appropriate and available, the continuation of work within other parts of the organization will be explored.
Following the closure in Amsterdam, Race Planet will continue to operate from its Delft location and with activities at Circuit Zandvoort. Race Planet Delft remains open for indoor karting and various other forms of entertainment. At Zandvoort, the Race Experiences and driving activities, among others, will continue to take place.
Race Planet Amsterdam will remain fully open through November 1st. The organization hopes that many visitors will stop by one last time in the coming months to reminisce and make new memories.
Source and more information: www.raceplanet.nl