FIA ANNOUNCES 6 KEY CHANGES IN CANADIAN GP... read more

FIA ANNOUNCES 6 KEY CHANGES IN CANADIAN GP DUE TO MONTREAL WILDFIRE O… read more

The FIA has officially announced a series of emergency measures ahead of this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix following a sudden outbreak of wildfires in the Montreal region. With air quality levels deteriorating rapidly and public safety concerns growing, the governing body has acted swiftly to implement six key changes to ensure the safety of drivers, teams, and fans.

The changes, announced earlier today, are as follows:

Shortened Free Practice Sessions
Both FP1 and FP2 on Friday will be reduced by 15 minutes each to limit outdoor exposure for drivers, marshals, and track personnel.
Revised Medical Protocols
Additional respiratory medical teams and equipment, including oxygen stations, will be stationed at key points around the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Medical checks for all team members will be mandatory after each session.
Adjusted Tyre Allocations
Due to concerns over excessive track surface temperatures from combined heat and wildfire ash, Pirelli has approved a revised tyre allocation, including additional medium compounds.
Protective Gear for Track Marshals
All marshals working trackside will now be provided with high-grade FFP3 masks, with optional visors, to guard against inhalation of particulate matter from wildfire smoke.
Modified Fan Zones & Viewing Areas
Certain outdoor fan zones will either be relocated or scaled down to reduce the risk of prolonged exposure for spectators. Indoor, ventilated viewing zones will be expanded.
Conditional Race Start Time Review
While the race is still scheduled for its regular Sunday afternoon slot, the FIA has stated that start times could be adjusted if air quality worsens. Updates will be provided no later than Saturday evening.

Environmental Concerns Grow

The wildfires, which began earlier this week on Montreal’s outskirts, have sent thick plumes of smoke drifting over the city. Local authorities have already issued air quality alerts, advising vulnerable populations—including children and the elderly—to stay indoors.

FIA Race Director Niels Wittich emphasized that ongoing environmental assessments would determine whether further modifications or potential postponement would be necessary.

“The safety of everyone involved in this Grand Prix is our top priority,” Wittich stated. “We are prepared to make further changes if conditions deteriorate.”Teams Responding

Several teams, including Mercedes and McLaren, have already adjusted their schedules, with some drivers opting for limited media appearances and reduced outdoor commitments.

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali added that while the situation is being closely monitored, there is currently no plan to cancel the race unless conditions make it absolutely unavoidable.

What’s Next?

Final updates on race scheduling and further environmental assessments will be issued within 48 hours.
Fans are advised to check official F1 channels for the latest health guidance and venue changes.

As the Canadian Grand Prix weekend approaches, the motorsport world watches with bated breath—both for the racing action and the hope that conditions stabilize soon.