Canadian Grand Prix Moves to May from 2026

In a significant shift for the Formula 1 calendar, the Canadian Grand Prix will be rescheduled to earlier in the year, starting from 2026. This change aims to streamline the racing schedule and is expected to align with the Miami Grand Prix, aiding F1’s push for carbon neutrality.

Formula 1 announced on Monday that the Montreal race will be held on the third or fourth weekend of May each year, moving from its traditional mid-June slot. This adjustment follows the recent news that the Monaco Grand Prix will also shift from its usual end-of-May date to the first weekend of June from 2026 onwards as part of its contract extension to 2031.

The rescheduling is designed to create a more logical and sustainable race calendar. By pairing the Montreal race with the Miami Grand Prix, which has been held in early May since its inception in 2022, Formula 1 aims to eliminate the need for a standalone Atlantic crossing for teams based in Europe. This change will allow for a continuous European season during the summer months.

Formula 1’s statement highlighted that this move is part of its broader efforts to rationalise the race calendar and enhance sustainability by hosting events earlier in the year. The new schedule will also see Japan’s race move towards the start of the season while Baku will shift to a later date. Additionally, Qatar will now be formally paired with Abu Dhabi, moving from its previous standalone slot in 2023.

Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, expressed gratitude to the Canadian Grand Prix’s promoter and government stakeholders for their efforts in accelerating the event’s preparation. Domenicali emphasised that the change will make the calendar more sustainable and logistically sensible for teams and personnel, aligning with Formula 1’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2030.

Concerns have been raised about the potential impact of cold and wet weather on the Montreal race, which is held on an island in the St. Lawrence River with limited access for infrastructure setup. However, the suggested slot for the 2026 race aims to mitigate these issues by not scheduling it earlier in May.

Jean-Philippe Paradis, CEO of race promoter Octane Racing Group, stated that the date change is a major step towards a more sustainable future for the Canadian Grand Prix. Paradis highlighted the desire to combine sporting performance with environmental responsibility, offering fans and communities a unique and enriched experience while extending Montreal’s summer season.