F1 Academy will continue to race at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in Montreal until 2028, following a newly announced three-year extension to its existing agreement. This development comes as the all-female racing series makes its debut at the Canadian GP this season, marking an important step in its international expansion.
Importantly, the extension signifies a powerful show of support from race promoter Octane Racing Group. It also demonstrates a shared commitment to nurturing female talent in motorsport and providing young women with greater visibility and opportunity, both on and off the track.
Building on record-breaking attendance
Notably, the 2025 Canadian GP welcomed an astounding 350,000 fans across the race weekend, setting a new attendance record. Therefore, this extension is not merely a contractual arrangement but rather a deliberate investment in the future of motorsport.
As a result, the Canadian GP cements its position as a key platform for showcasing the F1 Academy series. By embracing inclusivity and diversity, the Montreal race weekend is evolving into more than just a competitive spectacle—it is also becoming a catalyst for cultural and sporting change.
Sandrine Garneau, Chief Operating Officer – Brand and Strategy of Octane Racing Group, stated:
“Canada is a place where openness, inclusion, and diversity aren’t just ideals — they’re part of our identity. The enthusiastic response to F1 Academy here in Montreal clearly reflects a strong desire for progress and greater representation in motorsport. We are proud to champion this new generation of fearless, talented drivers and to play a role in building a future where every young woman can see herself on the starting grid. Confirming the series’ return to our calendar is more than a scheduling decision — it’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to a sport that truly reflects the world around it.”
Sustained global growth and recognition
Moreover, the timing of this announcement could not be more fitting. F1 Academy is experiencing unprecedented growth in its global profile. In 2024 alone, the series achieved a remarkable 111% increase in social media following. Simultaneously, the global launch of the documentary F1: THE ACADEMY on Netflix has significantly enhanced the series’ visibility, reaching viewers in over 170 territories worldwide.
Consequently, F1 Academy is fast becoming a central pillar of modern motorsport. As its fan base expands, so too does the series’ influence and potential to shape the sporting landscape.
Susie Wolff, Managing Director of F1 Academy, expressed her enthusiasm:
“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. The positive reception we have received from the Canadian fans has been a great privilege to witness. I want to thank the team at the Canadian Grand Prix for their support and commitment to fuelling the future of women in motorsport.”
Spotlight on local talent: Nicole Havrda
At the same time, this weekend’s event carries special significance for Canadian driver Nicole Havrda. The British Columbia native will race at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve for the very first time in her career. Thus, her participation brings a sense of national pride and local representation to the grid.
Coincidentally, this weekend also marks the halfway point in the 2025 F1 Academy season. The championship battle is heating up as frontrunners Maya Weug and Doriane Pin enter the weekend separated by just a single point. Hence, fans can expect a fiercely competitive display as the fight for the title intensifies.
F1 Academy looking forward to a stronger, more inclusive future
The extended presence of F1 Academy in Montreal symbolises much more than just additional races on the calendar. It reflects an evolving sport that increasingly values inclusivity, ambition, and talent regardless of gender.
Furthermore, by creating meaningful opportunities for young women to pursue careers in motorsport, F1 Academy continues to challenge traditional narratives and redefine what is possible.
As the engines roar at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, the message is louder than ever: the road to the future is paved with diversity, and women will be driving it forward.
