Tour de Force in Montreal: Canadian GP 2025’s High-Stakes Storylines

F1 swaps European high drama for Montreal’s iconic street-circuit chaos this weekend (June 13-15) for the Canadian GP.

2025 Canadian GP Preview: Max Verstappen’s Tipping Point, Lance Stroll’s Homecoming, Mercedes’ Upgrades and More

With Max Verstappen nearly one misstep from suspension, Lance Stroll aiming to impress at his home race post-surgery, and Mercedes banking on upgrades, there’s plenty to unpack.

As McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Norris continue to ride high, Ferrari has surged into P2 in the standings.

Aston Martin – beyond Stroll’s return – are keen to climb, while Haas celebrate 200 races with a retro livery aiming to score solid midfield points.

Montreal is famous for its fickle skies – cool temps plus sudden rain are common. That sets the stage for a strategic lottery: tyre gambles, pit-stop timing, masterful calls.

Which of the chasing pack can exploit Montreal’s unpredictability to grab a shock podium?

Max Verstappen Close to a Race Ban

Verstappen’s licence sits at 11 penalty points, one shy of the 12-point threshold that triggers an automatic one-race ban. That looming sanction has prompted Red Bull to issue strict team orders in Montreal – no risky moves, no drama.

The tricky balancing act: drive hard enough to close his 49‑point gap to championship leader Oscar Piastri, but safe enough to avoid another penalty.

Can Verstappen deliver a strong result without burning rubber or crossing the penalty line?

Mercedes Desperate for a Turnaround

Mercedes endured a brutal European tour: off‑pace at Imola, pointless in Monaco, and riddled with reliability issues – leaving them with just 18 points from the last three races.

But hope is alive: they bring new upgrades for Canada, a circuit that suits their strengths, and cooler weather could help tame tyre and brake management woes.

Will the upgrades and fresh setup flip their form – and are George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli ready to bounce back?