Formula 1 has officially secured its return to Montreal’s Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve through the 2035 season, marking a landmark commitment that ensures the Canadian Grand Prix will head into its seventh decade on the calendar. The deal—signed with promoter Octane Racing Group and backed by federal, provincial, and city governments—also extends broadcast rights with Bell Media, setting the stage for 10 more years of racing on the iconic island park.
Motorsport History Continues
First run in 1967, the Canadian GP has been a near-constant since 1978. With 54 editions completed, Montreal remains the longest-running Formula 1 event outside Europe. Legendary names like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton share the record with seven wins each. Other winners since 1967 include Fernando Alonso, Max Verstappen, and George Russell.
Sharpening the legacy is the notorious Wall of Champions, high-speed chicanes, and turn-one hairpin that define the circuit’s thrilling reputation—a track drivers and fans alike relish.
Investments & Calendar Rationalisation
To meet F1’s rising standards, the promoter Octane Racing Group has been pouring money into circuit upgrades—improved facilities, spectator areas, and infrastructure. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the efforts, calling Montreal “an incredible city, full of energy and passionate fans,” and credited “local, regional, and national political stakeholders” for helping elevate the event’s standing.
Importantly, the race date from 2026 onwards shifts to late May, swapping with Monaco to streamline travel—especially aligning Europe and North America rounds and reducing the sport’s carbon footprint.
Culture, Economy & Legacy
The renewed commitment is not just about racing—it’s a cultural and economic landmark. Jean-Philippe Paradis, head promoter, emphasised that F1 is “the biggest event in the country,” generating meaningful benefits for businesses and citizens.
F1’s latest deal underscores both parties’ long-term vision: the sport’s outreach in North America continues, even as venues like Miami and Mexico City also secure multi-year extensions into the 2030s.
What This Means Going Forward
1. Calendar Clarity & Growth
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With the Canadian GP locked in, F1 now sets its sights on further international expansion—while protecting its traditional races.
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The May shift ensures better logistics, lower emissions, and a tighter block of transatlantic races.
2. Upgraded Fan Experience
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Continued investments promise smoother operations, better amenities, and an enhanced race-day spectacle.
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For Montrealers and global fans, that means improved paddock tours, hospitality zones, and track visibility.
3. Economic Momentum
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The 10-year extension gives local businesses stability, allowing hotels, restaurants, and services to rely on F1’s annual boost.
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With Canada’s media rights secured through Bell Media, national exposure keeps delivering returns for years to come.
Balancing Tradition & Innovation
Formula 1’s expansion into new markets sometimes raises eyebrows, and Montreal itself faced challenges in 2024, with road and crowd-management issues prompting criticism. But the new deal—despite those hiccups—reflects a shared determination to preserve iconic races while embracing sustainability and modernization .
By locking in the Canadian GP until 2035, F1 and its Canadian partners have shown that heritage venues can stay relevant—if they evolve, invest, and align with sport-wide strategies.
Final Lap
With 2035 on the horizon, Montreal’s Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve is more than a track—it’s a symbol of F1’s past, present, and future in North America. Between its legendary corners, ardent fans, and growing infrastructure, it’s set for another decade of engine roars and unforgettable race weekends.
For teams, drivers, and fans alike, this extension offers not just certainty, but a challenge: to push harder, present better, and keep Montreal’s Grand Prix at the forefront of the Formula 1 narrative.
