The long-time former promoter of Canada's Formula 1 Grand Prix has issued a warning to Montreal: don't risk losing the event, or it may be gone for good.
With Formula 1 adamant about capping its packed calendar at 24 races, competition is heating up among new host nations. Talks with Thailand are reportedly advanced, while Morocco is now being linked to a potential race in Africa.
Although Montreal has a deal in place with F1 through to 2031, a damning report from Le Journal de Montreal claims the future of the event is "under review" following a problematic 2024 edition at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
According to the outlet, Formula 1 could terminate the contract early – as soon as 2029.
"Let's just say that last year's edition was not a success," said Normand Legault, who promoted the Canadian Grand Prix for many years but no longer holds a role in the event.
He warned that if Montreal loses its place on the F1 calendar, regaining it would be nearly impossible.
"It's not easy to bring back the Nordiques," Legault said, referencing the Quebec-based NHL team that relocated to Colorado in 1995.
"There are other cities that wanted (NHL) teams, like Las Vegas, Seattle and Salt Lake City," he added. "30 years ago, all you had to do was raise your hand."
Legault sees parallels between Quebec's hockey loss and what could happen to its Formula 1 race.
"But I like to think that we won't lose the grand prix," he continued. "I think the people who are there now will do what needs to be done to reassure the Formula 1 authorities."
One of the biggest issues is cost. Newer venues reportedly pay well over $50 million annually for a slot on the F1 calendar, whereas Montreal is believed to pay around $30 million — a figure that may be less attractive to F1's commercial rights holders.
Legault, who remains active in motorsport through MotoGP investments, said the challenge is clear.
"We can clearly see the pipeline of countries that want MotoGP events," he said — implying that F1 has even more suitors waiting in line.
