F1 shifts Canadian GP to May in strategic calendar overhaul
F1 confirms Canadian GP moves to May from 2026, creating Miami double-header in strategic calendar shift to improve sustainability and logistics.
Formula 1 confirms that the Canadian Grand Prix will move to a May slot from 2026, creating a more streamlined calendar structure that eliminates unnecessary trans-Atlantic travel.
New north American partnership
The Montreal event, traditionally held in mid-June, will now take place in either the third or fourth weekend of May, enabling a natural pairing with the Miami Grand Prix.
This strategic repositioning comes as part of Formula 1's broader initiative to optimize its global calendar, following last week's announcement of Monaco's shift to an early June slot under its new contract extension through 2031.
Sustainability drives change
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali emphasized the environmental benefits of the calendar restructure.
"The change will make the future flow of our calendar not only more sustainable, but logistically more sensible for our teams and personnel,"
Domenicali explained.
"Our Net Zero by 2030 commitment continues to be a priority for us as a sport."
Logistical challenges
The timing adjustment presents unique challenges for the Montreal organizers, given the circuit's location on an island in the St. Lawrence River.
Jean-Philippe Paradis, CEO of the Octane Racing Group, addressed these concerns head-on:
"This change in the schedule is a major step in our commitment, as well as Formula 1's, toward a more sustainable future. We are determined to offer our fans, our communities, and our loyal audience a unique and enriched experience."
Broader calendar evolution
The calendar reorganization extends beyond North America.
The 2025 season will begin with an Oceania-Asia swing, followed by Middle Eastern rounds in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia – a departure from recent years' opening sequences.
The Japanese Grand Prix's move to an early-season slot and Azerbaijan's shift to later in the year further demonstrate F1's commitment to geographical rationalization.
The weather implications of an earlier Canadian race have raised some concerns, particularly regarding the complex infrastructure setup required for the island-based circuit.
However, the positioning in late May appears designed to mitigate these potential challenges while maximizing the benefits of the calendar's broader restructuring.
Comments ()