The Gilles Villeneuve circuit under construction until spring 2024
The Gilles Villeneuve circuit is under construction. Track resurfacing is currently underway to ensure a clean track for the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix.
The Gilles Villeneuve circuit is undergoing a makeover. The track, which has hosted the Canadian Grand Prix since 1978 (with the exception of contract-less years), is currently under construction. The circuit directors have announced that the resurfacing, which began in September, will be completed in the spring. These works aim to make the track ideal for the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix.
The Gilles-Villeneuve circuit is set to host the Formula 1 from June 7th to 9th. It is imperative to adhere to this tight schedule.
The news
The Gilles-Villeneuve circuit is not only the venue for Formula 1. The track is also the stage for bike competitions. Some athletes who practice rollerblading and running go there to train. The circuit is surrounded by gardens, in the heart of Montreal. However, due to the construction work started on September 25th, no athlete will be able to access it until spring, according to the website. Only the bike path remains accessible.
Among the works, the circuit will lose its multifunctional track (for two-wheelers). The layout will now be two-way (excluding F1 events, of course).
What impact on Formula 1?
Since its creation in 1978, the Canadian circuit has been a cornerstone of the World Championship. Between 1961 and 1978, the Grand Prix took place at Mosport Park and Mont-Tremblant. Since then, it has been held on Île Notre-Dame. In 2017, the directors of Circuit Gilles Villeneuve extended their contract with the FIA until 2031. During these contract extension discussions, the Federation regularly insists on the need for circuits to be renovated, either by new asphalt or by the modernization of facilities.
It was probably specified in this agreement that the Gilles Villeneuve circuit was to be modernized. These works will allow the drivers to have better grip on the track, fewer bounces, and of course, a cleaner track.
The work has been scheduled so that, upon their completion, the circuit will be operational for the Montreal Grand Prix in 2024.
