Channel 4 to Broadcast Free Highlights of the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix
Formula 1 returns to action this weekend with the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix, and fans in the UK will once again be able to catch all the key moments for free on Channel 4. After an extended break between races, anticipation has been building across the paddock as teams arrive in Montreal eager to restart their campaigns with fresh upgrades and renewed momentum.
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is expected to provide another thrilling chapter in this year’s championship battle, especially after several teams spent the recent pause refining their cars behind the scenes. Engineers and strategists have used the extra time to analyse weaknesses, improve setups and introduce new development packages aimed at gaining an advantage over their rivals.
One of the biggest talking points heading into the Canadian weekend is the pressure facing Mercedes. The Silver Arrows struggled to keep pace with their closest competitors during the previous round in Miami, where rivals made significant progress through aggressive upgrade programs. Both McLaren and Ferrari appeared to unlock extra performance, leaving Mercedes chasing the leading pack.
Team principal Toto Wolff admitted that Mercedes’ decision to delay its major upgrade package until Canada may have left the team temporarily behind the curve. According to Wolff, the timing of the developments placed Mercedes “out of sync” with teams that introduced improvements earlier in the season.
That strategy is now set to be fully tested in Montreal, where Mercedes hope their new components can close the performance gap. Expectations are high for drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, who will be aiming to challenge the front-runners on a circuit known for rewarding confidence and straight-line speed.
Meanwhile, McLaren Formula 1 Team continue to look like one of the strongest outfits on the grid after their recent surge in form. Their rapid development rate has transformed them into genuine title contenders, while Scuderia Ferrari are also expected to remain firmly in the fight after showing impressive pace in Miami.
The Canadian Grand Prix has a long history of producing dramatic races, from unpredictable weather to safety cars and last-lap battles. With teams arriving armed with upgrades and little recent racing data under the new conditions, the weekend could deliver more surprises as the championship battle intensifies.
Fans who cannot watch the race live will still be able to enjoy extensive free-to-air coverage through Channel 4’s highlights programme. The broadcaster is set to air qualifying and race highlights, giving viewers the chance to follow every major incident, overtake and strategic twist from Montreal without needing a subscription service.
As Formula 1 heads into the next phase of the season, all eyes will be on whether Mercedes can bounce back with their delayed upgrades or whether McLaren and Ferrari will continue to dictate the pace at the front.