Canadian Grand Prix 2026
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on Île Notre-Dame in Montreal, a fan-favourite venue known for producing dramatic races, safety cars, and its infamous "Wall of Champions."
Race Information
Circuit Gilles Villeneuve
Montreal, Canada
70
4.361 km
1978
Valtteri Bottas (1:13.078, 2019)
About Circuit Gilles Villeneuve
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is located on Île Notre-Dame, a man-made island in the Saint Lawrence River that was originally constructed for Expo 67. Named after legendary Canadian driver Gilles Villeneuve, the semi-permanent circuit has been a fixture on the F1 calendar since 1978 and is one of the most popular venues with both drivers and fans. The island setting provides a unique backdrop, with the Montreal skyline visible from many vantage points around the track.
The circuit's layout is characterised by long straights connected by tight chicanes, making it a stop-start track that is notoriously hard on brakes. The heavy braking zones create excellent overtaking opportunities, and the close proximity of concrete walls on both sides punishes mistakes severely. The most famous section is the final chicane, where the exit wall has claimed so many champions — including Damon Hill, Michael Schumacher, and Jacques Villeneuve — that it earned the nickname "Wall of Champions."
Montreal's unpredictable weather adds another layer of excitement, with rain showers capable of transforming the race in an instant. The Canadian Grand Prix has produced some of the most memorable races in F1 history, including Jenson Button's extraordinary victory from last place in the rain-soaked 2011 race, widely regarded as one of the greatest grands prix ever held. The enthusiastic Canadian fans, the vibrant city atmosphere, and the track's ability to consistently deliver exciting racing make this one of the most anticipated weekends of the season.
How to Watch the Canadian Grand Prix
In the UK, the Canadian Grand Prix is broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, with streaming via Sky Go and NOW TV. The five-hour time difference means the race typically starts in the early evening UK time.
Channel 4 provides extended highlights. Check our TV schedule page for exact session times and broadcast details.
International viewers can watch via F1 TV Pro, TSN/RDS (Canada), ESPN (USA), and other regional broadcasters.
Previous Winners
| Year | Winner | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2024 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2023 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2022 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2019 | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes |