Formula 1 fans can rejoice! The Canadian Grand Prix is set to remain a thrilling fixture on the F1 calendar at Montreal’s iconic Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve through the 2035 season. This significant extension secures the future of one of the sport’s most popular events for over another decade.
The new agreement, a four-year extension building on a previous deal that ran until 2031, ensures the Canadian Grand Prix will continue its storied history, racing into its seventh decade. The deal was forged through a collaborative partnership involving Formula 1, the race Promoter (Octane Racing Group), and key government bodies from Canada and Québec, alongside stakeholders like Canada Economic Development, the Ministry of Tourism (Québec), the City of Montréal, Tourism Montréal, and the Société du parc Jean-Drapeau.
A Circuit with Rich History and Challenge
The Canadian Grand Prix first joined the World Championship in 1967. Since 1978, the race has been permanently hosted at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, situated on the picturesque Île Notre-Dame, originally created for the 1967 Expo. The circuit was rightfully renamed in 1982 to honour the legendary Canadian driver, Gilles Villeneuve, who famously won the 1978 event.
Known for its demanding characteristics, the 4.36 km circuit is a firm favourite among drivers and fans alike. It features heavy-braking chicanes, a famous hairpin, and the notorious “Wall of Champions” at the final corner, a concrete barrier that has famously caught out many world-class drivers over the years. The track has been the stage for numerous dramatic races and memorable victories. Current stars like George Russell, Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, and Fernando Alonso have all tasted victory here. Notably, Lewis Hamilton shares the record for most wins at the venue with Michael Schumacher, both having triumphed seven times on the island circuit.
Investing in the Future
To meet the evolving demands of modern Formula 1, which continues its global expansion, the promoter, Octane Racing Group, has made significant investments in modernizing the circuit’s infrastructure, including upgrades to the paddock facilities. This commitment to enhancing the venue is set to continue, playing a vital role in improving the event experience in the coming years.
Strategic Calendar Shift
A key element of the new agreement is a strategic shift in the race calendar. From the 2026 season onwards, the Canadian Grand Prix will move to an earlier slot, taking place after the Miami Grand Prix in May. This logistical change aims to prevent F1 teams and personnel from having to make a separate trip back across the Atlantic for the Canadian race after completing European rounds, streamlining travel and operations.
Broader Economic Impact and Partnership
The extension of the Grand Prix is not just a sporting announcement; it represents significant economic benefits for Canadian businesses and citizens, shining a spotlight on Montreal and Québec on the international stage. Officials from all levels of government and tourism bodies expressed immense pride in renewing this multi-stakeholder partnership, highlighting the event’s status as the biggest in the country and one of the most appreciated globally.
Formula 1 President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali, praised Montreal as an “incredible city, full of energy and passionate fans,” acknowledging the race’s deep history and connection to Gilles Villeneuve. He thanked the promoter, political stakeholders, and the passionate Canadian fans, expressing anticipation for creating “more unforgettable moments” in Montreal over the next decade.
The renewed agreement also coincided with a long-term extension of Bell Media’s rights to broadcast F1 events in Canada, ensuring comprehensive coverage for Canadian viewers for years to come.
While infrastructure has seen upgrades, the island location of the circuit has presented logistical and access challenges in the past, including delays for spectators and paddock access, which remain points of attention for event organizers.
Despite these challenges, attendance figures have shown positive growth, rising steadily in recent years, showcasing the event’s popularity with fans. With Lance Stroll currently carrying the hopes of Canadian motorsport in Formula 1, the Canadian Grand Prix continues to hold special significance for the country. This long-term deal aligns Montreal with other circuits securing their future, like Melbourne (until 2037), Bahrain (until 2036), and Silverstone (until 2034), solidifying its place in F1’s global landscape well into the next decade.
