Canadian GP signs new agreement through 2035

The Canadian Grand Prix will remain on the Formula 1 calendar for the next decade after signing a new agreement taking it through 2035.

The existing agreement was due to expire in 2031, but following a move of the date of the race from 2026 onwards, which shifts the Canadian GP to late May to allow freight to move between Miami and Montreal without needing to return to Europe in between, there has now been a new agreement signed. The four-year extension will keep the race at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, where significant investments in facilities have been made in recent years.

The Montreal circuit has been the home of the race since 1978, and has been won a record seven times by both Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher, while George Russell this year joined Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso as active winners on the grid.

The promoter, Octane Racing Group, will continue to invest in the venue following the new agreement, which comes after a weekend that drew an attendance of 352,000 for this year’s race.

“As Formula 1 celebrates its 75th anniversary, it is fitting that we have announced an extension with the Canadian Grand Prix, a race that has such incredible history in our sport and is named after a true legend in Gilles Villeneuve,” F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said.

“Montréal is an incredible city, full of energy and passionate fans, and I am delighted to confirm that we will continue racing here through to the 2035 season and that our media rights deal with Bell Media is also extending in the long term.

“I would like to thank the promoter, Octane Racing Group, for their continued efforts in upgrading this iconic venue in recent years, and all local, regional, and national political stakeholders who have worked closely together to make this event what it is today. I would also like to thank our incredible Canadian fans. I look forward to creating more unforgettable moments in Montréal with you over the next 10 years.” 

A joint statement from local government figures said the renewal is a display of the wider commitment to collaborate to improve the Canadian Grand Prix even more moving forward.

“We are proud to renew this important multi-stakeholder partnership with Formula One World Championship (FOWC),” the statement read. “The Canadian Grand Prix is not only the biggest event in the country, it is also one of the most appreciated in the world. It makes our city vibrate and shine on the international scene, while generating significant economic benefits for Canadian businesses and citizens.

“This announcement is a concrete expression of our shared commitment to further develop the Canadian Formula 1 Grand Prix and ensure its unrivaled success for years to come.”