F1 Academy Extends Montreal Racing Agreement Through 2028

The F1 Academy has officially announced a three-year extension to its agreement, confirming that the all-female racing series will continue to hold events at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in Montreal through the year 2028. This marks a significant milestone for the series, which is racing in Montreal for the first time during the current season. The decision reflects a commitment from the race promoter, Octane Racing Group, to foster female talent in motorsport and to inspire the next generation of young women in the field.

The announcement was made public as the Canadian Grand Prix celebrated a record-breaking attendance of 350,000 fans over the race weekend in 2022, underscoring the growing popularity of motorsports in Canada. According to Susie Wolff, Managing Director of F1 Academy, "We are thrilled to be racing at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve through to 2028 in an extension that supports our expanding international platform and continually growing global fan base." Wolff emphasized the positive reception from Canadian fans, marking it as a privilege to experience.

The F1 Academy aims to cultivate an inclusive environment within motorsport. Sandrine Garneau, Chief Operating Officer of Octane Racing Group, reiterated this commitment, stating, "Canada is a place where openness, inclusion, and diversity aren’t just ideals – they’re part of our identity." Garneau added that the enthusiastic response to F1 Academy in Montreal indicates a strong desire for progress and representation in motorsport.

This year, the F1 Academy features notable participants, including Canadian racer Nicole Havrda from British Columbia, who is set to compete at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve for the first time. The series has seen substantial growth in viewership and social media following, with a reported 111% increase in its audience in 2024. Furthermore, a documentary titled 'F1: The Academy' is currently streaming on Netflix, further raising the profile of female racers.

The implications of this extension go beyond mere scheduling; it represents a broader commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusion within the motorsport industry, as noted by various stakeholders in the field. The F1 Academy's presence in Montreal is expected to not only contribute to the local economy but also inspire a new generation of female racers. As the series moves forward, it will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of motorsport by ensuring that young women see themselves represented on the starting grid. The ongoing partnership with Octane Racing Group aims to solidify a foundation where every aspiring female driver can envision a career in motorsports, ultimately transforming the landscape of a traditionally male-dominated sport.