Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix

Circuit information

The Canadian Grand Prix is held in the downtown of Montreal on a man-made island in the St. Lawrence River, Île Notre-Dame. The island was built specifically for the World Exhibition in 1967 and later on hosted a part of the events of the Summer Olympic Games in 1976. When the previous circuits were not considered safe anymore, a cost effective solution was chosen and the grand prix was moved to Île Notre-Dame. The race track got its current name, Circuit Gilles Villeneuve after the tragic death of the beloved Canadian Formula One driver in 1982.

The circuit is a fast circuit as a result of the good combination of fast and slow turns and long straights. The track was designed for motor racing but it is a public road for the rest of the year. As such, barriers run often close to the race track and many experienced drivers have been caught out by them. The most famous part of the circuit is the wall on the outside of the exit of the final chicane. The wall used to be called ‘Quebec Wall' due to the sign ‘Bienvenue au Québec' painted on it. Since 1999 the wall has the nickname of ‘The Wall of Champions' as three F1 World Champion ended their race in the wall, Michael Schumacher, Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve.

In spite of such difficulties the drivers like this track very much as it is amongst the few circuits where overtaking is possible, being one of the key elements of a race that is full of action. The splendid surroundings of the track and the outstanding atmosphere of the city of Montreal makes this grand prix a perfect choice to all Formula 1 fans considering to travel overseas.

Buy your tickets in advance as there are limited grandstands and general admission tickets available!