Canadian Grand Prix 2025: Dates, Schedule & Circuit Guide

The Formula 1 season takes a brief break from its European leg to head back across the Atlantic to Montreal for the Canadian Grand Prix.

The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve has been a consistent presence on the F1 calendar since 1978, establishing itself as the sport`s premier North American venue and the stage for numerous thrilling races and significant moments.

McLaren arrives in Canada in a strong position in both championships, boosted by their second one-two finish of the season in Spain. Oscar Piastri`s fifth victory of 2025 extended his lead in the Drivers` Championship over teammate Lando Norris to 10 points. Reigning champion Max Verstappen is now 49 points adrift after receiving a penalty for colliding with George Russell.

In the Constructors` Championship, McLaren holds a substantial 197-point lead over Ferrari, who recently moved ahead of Mercedes and Red Bull into second place for the first time this season.

Montreal is therefore a crucial weekend for Verstappen, who has won the last three Canadian GPs, if the Red Bull driver intends to remain a realistic contender for the title. Conversely, Lewis Hamilton, a joint record holder with seven wins at this circuit, will be hoping this return to a favored venue helps reignite his season.

The F1 Academy series will also be in action, staging its fourth round of the season with three races in Montreal, following the cancellation of the previous round in Miami due to torrential rain.

Circuit Gilles Villeneuve Track Layout

Constructed on the artificial Notre Dame Island, the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, named in honor of the Canadian racing legend and father of 1997 world champion Jacques, is a fan favorite due to its high-speed nature and conducive layout for overtaking.

The 2.71-mile (4.36 km) track presents a significant challenge for car brakes, with critical heavy braking zones located at the first chicane, the Turn 10 hairpin, and the final chicane at the end of the long back straight. The close proximity of walls and barriers throughout the circuit further intensifies the challenge.

Even after successfully navigating most of the lap, the infamous “Wall of Champions” awaits at the exit of the final chicane, ready to penalize even the slightest error before the pit straight. It gained its notorious name during the 1999 race when former world champions Jacques Villeneuve, Damon Hill, and Michael Schumacher (who was leading at the time) all crashed into it.

Canadian GP Weather in Montreal

While rain is often a characteristic of the Montreal race weekend, the current forecast for this year`s event suggests pleasant conditions with sunny intervals. Temperatures are expected to be in the mid-20s Celsius.

Canadian GP 2025 Dates and UK Schedule