| Date | June 13th-15th |
|---|---|
| Circuit Length | 4.361 km |
| Laps | 70 |
| Lap Record | 1:13.078 – Valtteri Bottas (2019) |
| Previous Winner | Max Verstappen – Red Bull (2024) |
History of the F1 Canada GP
The man-made Notre Dame Island, nestled in the St. Lawrence River, was originally created for Expo 67, the World’s Fair held in 1967. Following the conclusion of the expo and the 1976 Montreal Summer Olympics, innovative minds transformed the island’s roads into a racing circuit. Thus, the Circuit Île Notre-Dame was born, paving the way for an iconic venue in Formula 1 history.
After years of the Canadian Grand Prix moving between various locations in the 1960s and 1970s, the Circuit Île Notre-Dame made its debut on the Formula 1 schedule in 1978. In a storybook moment, Gilles Villeneuve captured his first-ever victory at the circuit, a fitting achievement for the man whose name the track would eventually honor. This win solidified its place as a beloved destination for F1 drivers and fans alike.
Circuit Specifications
- Corners: 14
- DRS Zones: 2
- Pit Stop Strategies: One-Stop Strategy. The circuit’s low-grip surface and heavy braking zones can lead to moderate tire wear
- Most Used Tires: Start on medium (C4) tires, then switch to hard (C3) tires
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is a highlight on the Formula 1 calendar, known for its mix of speed and technical complexity. Its stop-start layout features demanding heavy-braking chicanes and a tight hairpin, putting both drivers and brakes to the ultimate test. Once past these sections, the track opens up into fast, flowing stretches that showcase its thrilling nature.
The Wall of Champions
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal is home to one of Formula 1’s most infamous features: the Wall of Champions. This notorious barrier, located at the exit of the final chicane before the start/finish straight, has earned its name by claiming some of the sport’s most skilled Formula 1 drivers over the years.
Its reputation was cemented during the 1999 Canadian Grand Prix, when three F1 world champions—Damon Hill, Michael Schumacher, and Jacques Villeneuve—crashed into the wall in separate incidents. Since then, the Wall of Champions has become a symbol of the circuit’s unforgiving nature, punishing even the slightest misjudgment from drivers pushing the limits.
This corner challenges competitors with its high-speed approach and razor-thin margins for error, making it a defining element of the season. Many drivers, including non-champions, have fallen victim to the wall, but its ability to humble even the best adds to its legendary status. Surviving the Wall of Champions unscathed is a badge of honor for any driver, highlighting the perfect balance of skill, precision, and bravery required to conquer this iconic circuit.
Get the freshest Formula 1 News and insights on F1 Sprint News.
F1 Canada GP FAQs
- What is the average speed at the Canadian GP?
The average speed is approximately 210 km/h. - Which driver has the most wins at the Canadian GP?
Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton share the record with 7 wins each. - Why is it called the Wall of Champions?
The final chicane features a wall where many world champions, including Damon Hill, Jacques Villeneuve, and Michael Schumacher, have crashed during the 1999 race weekend.