The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve first hosted a Formula One race in 1978 and since then, the city of Montreal has been a mainstay on the F1 calendar. There have only been four occasions when F1 fans did not flock to Quebec, due to sponsorship disagreements, contractual disputes, and two years of COVID. But after signing a long-term contract to host the event until 2031, the future is certainly bright for Montreal. The longevity of the circuit speaks for itself and there are plenty of reasons why fans from around the world flock to this wonderful city.
After 14 years at Mosport Park and 2 years at fellow Montreal racetrack, Mont Tremblant, the higher powers decided to permanently relocate the Canadian Grand Prix to Notre Dame Island, and the locals were able to see a Canadian take to the top step of the podium. Gilles Villeneuve took the checkered flag in the inaugural race, but the local hero was sadly killed in an accident at the 1982 Belgian Grand Prix. The track was subsequently renamed after the legend. Villeneuve, whose son Jacques won one driver’s championship, lit the touchpaper for Canada’s passion for Formula One with that victory, and locals of Montreal have continued to display that passion ever since.
For the F1 weekend, the city transforms into a hub of activity, noise, and lights, with Crescent Street taking center stage for the carnival atmosphere. The street is known around the rest of the year for its nightlife and gastronomy, but this energy is kicked into hyperdrive when the F1 circus rolls into town with the fun running late into the night.
For those who are not tempted by casino action at Canada’s largest casino right by the circuit, Crescent Street is the perfect place to set up to continue the F1 party. You can get your casino fix on the move at Cloudbet anyway, with not only casino markets up also F1 betting markets available year round. At Crescent Street, fans can get a firsthand glimpse of real racing cars and try their hand at an array of Formula One related activities, including driving simulators and pit stop recreations with tires of real weight.
The interactive nature of this street festival adds another dimension to the F1 weekend experience and locals of Montreal will also turn out in their droves to throw their support behind the event. And it is this local support that makes the whole weekend even more endearing. With Lance Stroll driving for Aston Martin, locals have a Canadian to cheer on as well. However, the overall atmosphere is enough reason to visit this magnificent city, and to take in some Formula One action.