The Canadian Grand Prix is part of the Formula One World Championship and has been since 1967, though it’s been around since 1971. It was first held as a sports car event at Mosport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario before switching between Mosport and Circuit Mont-Tremblant, Quebec.
Safety concerns saw it move to Mostport permanently after 1971 but it relocated to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on Notre Dame Island in Montreal, Quebec in 1978 and has been there ever since.
The Canadian Grand Prix was the most-watched F1 event in the world and the third most-watched sporting event in the world in 2005, behind the Super Bowl and the UEFA Champions League final.
There were no events in 2020 and 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic but it returned in 2022 and will be taking place this year.
Below is all you need to know about the highly-anticipated racing event.
This year’s race will be held on June 9. And the official track address is as follows:
222 Circuit Gilles Villeneuve
Parc Jean-Drapeau
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
H3C 6A1
The race circuit is located a short distance south of downtown Montreal, allowing you to experience the city’s cultural heart while attending all the races.
The Yellow Line’s Jean-Drapeau Metro Station is where the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit is situated. The subway system is modern, safe, fast, and convenient. The track is a five-minute walk from the metro station and only 15 minutes from the city center by subway. It’s best to use the subway to avoid the car traffic that will be present during the Grand Prix.
After stepping out of the subway, you can take the 167 bus from the Metro to the race circuit.
Due to heavy traffic and limited parking at the track, it’s not recommended to arrive by car, except for Suite ticket holders. Ile Notre Dame, where the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is located, has limited access. It’s best to leave your car at the hotel and use public transport to reach the race circuit.
If you must drive, take the Jacques-Cartier Bridge’s « Parc Jean-Drapeau » exit. Be aware that Crescent Street, St-Paul Street, and Peel Street are all closed during race weekend, and expect delays on Jacques Cartier Bridge.
Although you can take an Uber or taxi, due to the heavy traffic all weekend, it’s advisable to make this a last resort.
There are three access points to get to the track once you’re on Ile Notre Dame: The Gates at the Concorde Bridge, the Gates at the Cosmos Bridge, and the Gates at the Montreal Casino.
Speaking of casinos, the event will be one the Canadian sports betting sphere will be paying keen attention to and it will provide fans with an avenue for making some extra cash.
Why not arrive as early as possible and make the most of your race day? The Ferrari Cup, Porsche Cup, and Touring Car races take place in the morning, so arriving by 8 A.M. will ensure you have a full day of high-speed fun.
Seating in the grandstand is reserved, so there’s no need to rush to get a good spot. However, to get the best seats, it’s recommended that you purchase your tickets early.
General Admission seating is first-come, first-served, so it’s advisable to arrive as early as possible for the best chance at great seats. Allow for time in traffic or normal metro travel time.
Grandstand tickets provide access to Grandstands 21a and 41a, which are designed for limited-mobility viewers. These grandstands are also the closest to parking, making them easily accessible.
Sit-down restaurants are available for grandstand ticket holders, but basic fare such as hot dogs is available to all guests. Prices can be on the higher end, so it’s recommended that you bring your own food.
If you don’t make reservations ahead of time, don’t expect local restaurants in downtown Montreal to have walk-in seating.
During the Canadian Grand Prix, the city of Montreal comes alive with events and activities for fans. From street festivals to concerts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Many of the local restaurants and bars also offer special F1-themed menus and drinks, so be sure to explore the city and take part in the festivities.
Additionally, the race weekend often attracts celebrities and VIPs, so keep your eyes peeled for some famous faces around town.
