Following a poor 2024 race, F1 places Montreal under review as competition grows and the city fights to keep its Grand Prix.
The former long-time promoter and leading figure of the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, the next round on the 2025 calendar, has warned the city not to let Formula 1 slip away.
The sport is determined not to expand its current 24-race calendar, even as it enters advanced negotiations with Thailand, while new rumours suggest Morocco has joined the race to host a potential event in Africa.
Montreal holds a contract with F1 through 2031, but following a disastrous 2024 edition at the iconic Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, the race is now “under review” by F1. If further issues arise, the contract could be shortened, bringing the event’s end forward to 2029.
“Let’s just say last year’s edition wasn’t a success,” acknowledged Normand Legault.
He warned, however, that if Montreal lets the event go, it is unlikely to return.
“It’s not easy to bring back the Nordiques,” he smiled, referring to the Quebec Nordiques NHL hockey team, which relocated and became the Colorado Avalanche in 1995.
“Other cities wanted NHL teams, like Las Vegas, Seattle and Salt Lake City. Thirty years ago, you just had to raise your hand. The same thing could happen now with Formula 1 in Quebec.”
“But I like to think we won’t lose the Grand Prix. I believe the people currently in charge will do what’s needed to reassure Formula 1 authorities.”
He did admit, however, that competition from other potential hosts is driving costs up for Canada. Montreal pays 30 million dollars annually, compared to over 50 million for some newer events.
Although no longer involved in Formula 1, Legault remains actively invested in the MotoGP series.
“We can clearly see that the number of countries interested in hosting MotoGP events is also growing. Liberty’s arrival will again shift the financial landscape.”
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