Everything You Need to Know About the Montreal Grand Prix

The Montreal Grand Prix, held at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on Ile Notre-Dame, is one of Formula 1’s most recognisable and enduring events. The Canadian Grand Prix has been a key part of the F1 calendar for decades, combining long straights, heavy braking zones and unpredictable weather that regularly produces dramatic racing. With the 2026 race already announced and major changes confirmed, fans have plenty to look forward to.

A Brief History of the Montreal Grand Prix

The Canadian Grand Prix first appeared on the Formula 1 World Championship schedule in 1967. Originally staged at Mosport Park and Mont-Tremblant, the race found a permanent home in Montreal from 1978 onwards. The first Montreal race was won by Gilles Villeneuve, the beloved Canadian driver whose raw speed and charisma made him a national hero.

Following his tragic death in 1982, the track was renamed Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in his honour. The venue quickly gained fame for its tight final chicane and the “Wall of Champions,” where several world champions, including Michael Schumacher, Damon Hill, and Jacques Villeneuve, have crashed over the years. The circuit’s blend of straights and slow-speed corners makes it a test of braking performance, traction and driver precision.

What Happened at the 2-25 Montreal Grand Prix

The 2025 Canadian Grand Prix, held on June 15, 2025, delivered one of the standout races of the season. Mercedes’ George Russell started on pole and converted it into victory, securing his first win of the season and the team’s 130th Formula 1 win. He held off Max Verstappen, who finished second for Red Bull after applying late pressure in the closing laps.

The race also marked a milestone for Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli, who secured his first Formula 1 podium by finishing third. His performance was widely praised and reflected Mercedes’ strong weekend across both cars.

One of the biggest stories came from McLaren, after Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri collided while battling inside the top positions. Their clash dramatically impacted the race’s final order and became a major storyline after the chequered flag.

The 2026 Montreal Grand Prix

The 2026 Canadian Grand Prix will not be held in June. It has been confirmed that, from 2026 onwards, the race will take place on May 22-24. This change forms part of F1’s efforts to create a more environmentally efficient calendar by reducing long-haul travel. What is not yet confirmed is whether the 2026 race will host a Sprint weekend.

What is certain, however, is that 2026 marks the beginning of Formula 1’s new power-unit era, which may significantly alter the competitive order. Montreal’s layout will once again reward strong straight-line speed, efficient braking and good traction, making it a crucial early test of each team’s 2026 package. Fans tracking the form guide around this time will find the great sports betting odds for the race are available online.

Conclusion

The Montreal Grand Prix remains one of Formula 1’s most historic and entertaining races. From its origins in the 1960s to its modern status as a fan favourite, the Canadian Grand Prix consistently delivers drama. The 2025 edition reaffirmed the circuit’s reputation with Russell’s win, Antonelli’s first podium, and the McLaren collision dominating headlines. With the 2026 race moving to May and beginning a new technical era, Montreal is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the season’s early storylines.