Canadian Grand Prix in doubt after Formula 1 asks for additional $6 million

Formula 1 is set to lose its first race of the 2021 season after it was reported that the Canadian Grand Prix might not take place due to financial constraints.

The race at Circuit de Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, was set to take place without fans because of ongoing concerns about the pandemic. Formula 1 has reportedly asked the local government for an additional $6 million as compensation for not being able to host fans at the track.

The mayor of Montreal, Valerie Plante, said:

“For us, Formula 1 is important, and the message we want to send to all partners is that we have a great interest in this event.”

F1 fans fuming over lack of refunds for cancelled 2020 Canadian Grand Prix https://t.co/XSzQRWZ4px

— The Globe and Mail (@globeandmail) April 7, 2021

Montreal mayor hoping to reach an agreement with Formula 1

The Canadian Grand Prix could be scrapped for the second straight season if Montreal cannot pay the $6 million compensation to Formula 1. However, Plante is hoping to strike an agreement with the authorities involved. Speaking to La Presse, Plante said:

"We want it to be held on the same date as usual. There are still many details to attach, but I really hope that our government partners will be part of the game like us to ensure that this event is held this summer. ”

Other factors could also jeopardize the Canadian Grand Prix. Canada currently has a 14-day mandatory quarantine for travelers. However, since Formula 1 races in Azerbaijan before the race in Canada, it could prove to be a logistical nightmare for the FIA and teams alike. Speaking about the challenges of hosting a Canadian Grand Prix, Plante said:

"Several details need to be discussed with senior levels of government about measures that would be deemed safe by Public Health to hold the event."

Canadian Grand Prix in doubt, F1 'ask for extra $6m' | Planet F1 ... “News” (?) story in a nutshell. The Mayor of Montreal wants the federal Canadian government to pay. https://t.co/WlWfIH2G2M

— Joe Payne (@formula1ofakind) April 11, 2021

According to UOL in Brazil, Formula 1 could replace the Canadian Grand Prix with the Turkish Grand Prix in Istanbul, should Montreal fail to pay the compensation. The race at Istanbul Park was a major hit with Formula 1 fans last season. The rain-soaked weekend saw Lance Stroll take the first pole position of his career. However, the race was overshadowed by Lewis Hamilton clinching his record-equalling seventh world title after delivering a masterful performance. Sergio Perez and Sebastian Vettel rounded out the podium after Charles Leclerc lost places on the final lap.

Another race in unpredictable weather could be a fine replacement for the Canadian Grand Prix. However, fans will still be hoping for a Formula 1 return to the iconic track in Montreal.