F2 teams secure permanent Canadian GP spot following last-minute intervention.

      Formula 2 may become a permanent support category for the Canadian GP following its North American debut this season. F2 president Bruno Michel expressed to Le Journal de Montreal the championship's desire to establish a lasting presence at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. "Yes, I would appreciate it if we could return in a more permanent capacity," Michel stated.

      Originally, Formula 2 was not set to compete in either Miami or Montreal in 2026; however, due to the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races related to the situation in Iran, the series had to look for alternatives. "For F1, losing two races isn’t significant as it represents 10 percent of the season," Michel clarified. "For us, it makes a considerable difference due to fewer races."

      These replacement events also marked Formula 2's inaugural racing presence in North America. "When I informed our teams about racing in North America, they were ecstatic," Michel remarked. "They recognize the importance as we aim to enhance our profile in America."

      Michel disclosed that talks about a potential Canadian round had commenced prior to the cancellations in the Middle East. "Montreal inquired if we would participate in 2026, and I responded negatively as my schedule was already filled," he explained.

      Canadian GP chief operating officer Sandrine Garneau confirmed that the promoter is amenable to extending the arrangement. "We aspire for it to be a four-day event that fully engages the city," she stated. "Incorporating F2 and possibly F3 is a regular topic of discussion."

      The addition of Formula 2 presented significant logistical hurdles due to the late changes, necessitating the construction of temporary paddock facilities behind grandstand 15, close to the hairpin. Michel noted one benefit of Formula 2 is the direct access fans have to the paddock. "It allows fans to see the cars and the garages, unlike in F1 where everything is kept secret because the cars are state secrets," he remarked with a smile. "In F2, all teams use the same car."