The history of Le Circuit Mont-Tremblant speaks for itself. The track hosted the very first CanAm (predecessor to Champ Car) race in September of 1966. In 1967 and ’68, two USAC Championships (United States Automobile Club) were captured by legendary driver Mario Andretti. In addition to TransAm, Atlantic and Formula Ford racing, Le Circuit also hosted the 1968 and 1970 Grand Prix of Canada. But the track surface was very bumpy and led to extensive attrition of tires. In fact, of the forty cars entered in the two Grand Prix races, only sixteen managed to cross the finish line. The road course was soon deemed too dangerous for high-level racing. Professional events were gradually replaced by club racing and a Jim Russell race driving school.

Investor Lawrence Stroll purchased the track in 2006. His multimillion-dollar investment in the facility, including a complete repaving of the entire course, has resulted in the return of Champ Car racing to Tremblant this summer from June 29 to July 1. Fans will be able to see stars like Paul Tracy, Sébastien Bourdais and Alex Tagliani on what has been called the most beautiful and scenic circuit in North America. 

In addition to experiencing a renaissance at Mont-Tremblant, Champ Car is becoming a new kind of sporting event. “A race track and a beautiful resort are a winning combination,” says François Dumontier, General Manager of the Champ Car Mont-Tremblant event. “This is a weekend at a resort in a tourism region. People will come for the race but stay for the weekend in Mont-Tremblant.” 

Natural splendour and first-class amenities certainly help, but it is the collaboration with Cirque du Soleil that has everyone buzzing. The Cirque has already made successful appearances at other sporting events, including the SuperBowl and the 2007 F1 McLaren launch in Valencia. A huge racing fan, Cirque founder Guy Laliberté has partnered with Stroll and promoter Normand Legault to create an unparalleled racing experience. 

In addition to creating a theme for the corporate suite in the Paddock, Cirque performers will be instrumental in the closing party of the weekend. “They will be there to create a ‘Nightlife Experience’ at the top of the mountain to cap off the event,” says Dumontier. With all this to offer, Dumontier is justifiably excited. “The important thing for us is that people leave smiling, happy they came.”