The Formula 1 season heads to Montreal for one of the most unpredictable and fan-favourite races on the calendar, the Canadian Grand Prix.
This year’s Canadian Grand Prix will also feature the sprint format for the first time, making the weekend even more intense for drivers and teams. With shorter preparation time, high-speed walls, and changing track conditions, the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve rarely disappoints.
Last year, George Russell claimed victory for Mercedes at the venue ahead of Max Verstappen and rookie sensation Kimi Antonelli.
Now, all eyes are on who takes the crown in 2026.
Canadian Grand Prix 2026: Full Schedule
| Session | Date | Time (BST) |
| Free Practice 1 | Friday, May 22 | 22:00 – 23:00 |
| Sprint Qualifying | Saturday, May 23 | 02:00 – 02:44 |
| Sprint Race | Saturday, May 23 | 21:30 – 22:30 |
| Qualifying | Sunday, May 24 | 01:30 – 02:30 |
| Main Race | Sunday, May 24 | 01:30 – 03:29 |
Where is the Canadian Grand Prix taking place?
The Grand Prix of Canada will take place at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, located on Notre Dame Island in the St. Lawrence River, a permanent fixture of the Formula 1 race calendar since 1978.
Known for thrilling and exciting races, the circuit’s broken pattern creates a mix of long straight sections and heavy braking zones, providing many opportunities for passes to be made during most races.
It contains several notable corners during a race, including:
- Senna S
- Braking zone at Hairpin Curve (Turn 10)
- Droit du Casino
- The Wall of Champions (wall of champions)
The wall of champions became notorious in 1999 when three world champions, Michael Schumacher, Jacques Villeneuve and Damon Hill, all crashed into the wall during the race.
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Why the Canadian GP is one of Formula 1’s toughest races
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is tricky because it’s rarely used outside the F1 weekend, meaning grip levels stay low throughout the event.
Drivers have almost no room for mistakes. One small error can send a car straight into the barriers, especially near the Wall of Champions.
The sprint format this year adds another challenge because teams get less practice time to fine-tune setups before competitive sessions begin.
That could make qualifying and the sprint race even more unpredictable.
Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher dominate Canadian GP history
The most successful drivers in Canadian Grand Prix history are Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher, with seven wins each.
Lewis Hamilton’s first-ever Formula 1 victory also came at this circuit back in 2007.
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Among constructors, Ferrari holds the record for the most wins at the Canadian Grand Prix with 14 victories.
How to watch the Canadian Grand Prix 2026 live
Fans can watch the Canadian Grand Prix live through official Formula 1 broadcasters in their region. The race weekend can also be followed through live timing services and F1’s official digital platforms.
The main race starts on Sunday, May 24.
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