Harvick Champions Montreal as Potential NASCAR Expansion Site
(Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
Retired NASCAR star Kevin Harvick is making a compelling case for international expansion, specifically pointing to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal as a prime candidate to host a future NASCAR Cup Series race. Speaking on the “SPEED with Harvick and Buxton” podcast, the 2014 Cup Series champion and recent Texas Motorsports Hall of Fame inductee highlighted the track’s strong fan base and suitability for Cup cars.
Harvick, who raced at the Montreal circuit during its six-year run on the Xfinity Series schedule, emphasized the existing enthusiasm for NASCAR in Canada. “The Cup Series has never been to Montreal. We used to take the O’Reilly Series up to Montreal. I love the fan base, I love the track and we have so many NASCAR fans in Canada,” Harvick stated. He secured a win at the track in 2007, besting Patrick Carpentier in a memorable finish. Victories there also came from drivers like Carl Edwards and Justin Allgaier during the Xfinity Series era.
A History of Racing and a Ready Fanbase
Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, a 2.71-mile road course, has been a mainstay in motorsports since 1978, annually hosting the Formula One Canadian Grand Prix. Its combination of long straights, tight chicanes, and the infamous “Wall of Champions” presents a challenging but exciting layout for drivers.
NASCAR has already dipped its toe into international waters, returning to Mexico City in 2025 for the first time in decades. Yet, the 2026 Cup Series schedule currently remains focused on domestic tracks. Harvick’s advocacy adds fuel to the ongoing conversation about expanding NASCAR’s footprint beyond the United States.
NASCAR Canada Series Paving the Way
Canada already has a strong foundation for stock car racing through the NASCAR Canada Series, which continues to operate a full schedule across multiple tracks. Alan Labrosse, the series’ general manager, recently outlined the 2026 calendar, emphasizing a commitment to a “balanced and competitive season.”
Harvick’s suggestion isn’t simply a nostalgic preference. He believes Montreal offers a unique opportunity to tap into an established fanbase and showcase the Cup Series on a world-class road course.
What’s Next for NASCAR’s Global Ambitions?
Even as NASCAR officials haven’t announced any concrete plans to add Montreal to the Cup Series schedule, Harvick’s comments underscore the growing interest in international expansion. The track’s history, passionate fanbase, and prior experience hosting NASCAR events make it a compelling option.
Context Box: Circuit Gilles Villeneuve at a Glance
- Length: 2.71 miles (4.361 km)
- Configuration: Road Course
- First Race: 1978 (Formula One Canadian Grand Prix)
- NASCAR Xfinity Series Races: Hosted races from 2007-2012
- Key Features: Long straights, tight chicanes, “Wall of Champions”
Given Harvick’s influential voice within the sport and NASCAR’s stated interest in global growth, could Montreal realistically become the next international stop for the Cup Series?
