F1 announces major new contract for popular grand prix

F1 has announced a four-year extension of the Canadian Grand Prix's contract, ensuring it will race in Montreal until at least 2035.

The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve first joined the calendar in 1978, and has been on the schedule ever since, except in 1987 due to a sponsor dispute, in 2009 due to a calendar dispute and then in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19. 

The race is F1's longest-standing event outside of Europe, having first been held in 1967 at Mosport Park before settling on the Ille-Notre Dam in 1978, where local hero Villeneuve won his first grand prix.

The terms of its old contract were set to expire in 2031, but days after the 2025 race, won by Mercedes' George Russell, it was announced that a four-year extension had been agreed. 

"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," said F1 CEO and president Stefano Domenicali. 

"Montreal 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."

In recent years, Octane Racing Group has overseen major refurbishments of the facilities, including new pit garage and grandstands.