F1 Montreal 2026: Teams, Drivers & Transport Guide

Hosted at the iconic Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, the race remains one of the most exciting stops on the calendar, attracting over 350,000 fans to Montreal each year.

New teams reshaping Formula 1

The 2026 season introduces two major additions to the grid, expanding the championship to 11 teams.

• Audi F1 Team officially enters Formula 1 as a full factory team after taking over Sauber. Their 2026 driver lineup features Nico Hülkenberg and rising talent Gabriel Bortoleto.
• Cadillac F1 Team makes its debut as the sport’s newest American-backed entry, with experienced drivers Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas leading the team.

These additions mark the biggest expansion of the grid in years, bringing fresh competition and global interest.

Key driver lineups and changes in 2026

The 2026 grid features a mix of champions, experienced drivers, and emerging stars:

• Red Bull Racing: Max Verstappen is joined by young talent Isack Hadjar
• Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team: George Russell partners rising star Kimi Antonelli
• Scuderia Ferrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton form one of the strongest pairings on the grid
• McLaren: reigning champion Lando Norris continues alongside Oscar Piastri
• Williams Racing: Carlos Sainz Jr. joins Alexander Albon
• Alpine F1 Team: Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto
• Racing Bulls: Liam Lawson and rookie Arvid Lindblad, the only debutant this season

Overall, the 2026 season features 22 drivers across 11 teams, with only one rookie but several major team reshuffles.

New regulations and racing dynamics

The 2026 Formula 1 season introduces sweeping regulation changes, including:

• Greater reliance on hybrid power units
• 100% sustainable fuels
• New aerodynamic concepts for closer racing

These updates are expected to reduce performance gaps and create more competitive races—especially on circuits like Montreal, known for its overtaking opportunities and dramatic finishes.

Montreal Grand Prix: traffic and transportation

During race weekend, Montreal experiences significant congestion and road closures, particularly around:

• Île Notre-Dame and Parc Jean-Drapeau
• Jacques Cartier Bridge access routes
• Downtown Montreal and Old Port

With limited parking and heavy traffic, planning transportation is essential.

Group transportation for F1 Montreal

Choosing a charter coach bus company or arranging a charter bus rental is one of the most efficient ways for groups to attend the event. Group transportation helps reduce delays, simplifies logistics, and ensures coordinated arrivals near the circuit.

Layman Transport has a long-standing partnership with the Montreal Grand Prix, providing professional transportation services for corporate groups, VIP clients, and fans every year. The company has also been selected as a charter bus company by American Express for event-related services.

With a diverse fleet of coach buses, minibuses, and executive vehicles, Layman Transport supports smooth and reliable travel during one of Montreal’s busiest weekends.

— Layman