The Formula One season reaches its ninth round with the Canadian Grand Prix, set to take place at the iconic Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal. This race is particularly special for Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll and his father, Lawrence, who owns the team, making it their home race.
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, located on the man-made island of Notre Dame in the St Lawrence River, has been a staple on the F1 calendar since 1978. Known for its fast layout, challenging corners, and unpredictable weather, the circuit is a favorite among both drivers and fans. Key features include the Wall of Champions, a notorious corner that has claimed many top drivers over the years.
In recent news, Sergio Pérez has signed a contract extension with Red Bull through to 2026, ending speculation about his future with the team. Additionally, Alpine has confirmed that Esteban Ocon will leave the team at the end of the season, with reserve driver Jack Doohan replacing him for the first practice session in Canada.
Max Verstappen, who won last year’s race, leads the drivers’ championship with 169 points, holding a 31-point lead over Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. Red Bull currently leads the constructors’ championship, but Ferrari has been closing the gap with recent strong performances.
The weather forecast for Montreal indicates possible showers throughout the weekend, which could introduce an element of unpredictability to the race. No wet races have occurred so far in the 2024 season, making tire choice and strategy crucial factors.
Circuit Stats
– Laps: 70 laps of 4.361 km each– Lap record: 1:13.078 by Valtteri Bottas (2019)– Most wins: Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton with seven wins each
