Over the weekend, a record‑breaking 360,000 spectators gathered on Montreal's Île Notre‑Dame for the 2026 Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix. While the turnout underscored the sport’s growing appeal, many fans complained that ticket and merchandise prices have surged to levels that could deter future attendees.

Ticket price jump to $840 for a Grandstand seat

Long‑time fan Jonah Presser,who dressed as Lance Stroll, said his Grandstand ticket cost $495 five years ago but rose to $840 this year for the same hairpin‑turn view. "It's starting to get out of hand," Presser told reporters, echoing a sentiment shared by many who fear the sport is becoming unaffordable for average enthusiasts.

Canada remains the 12th cheapest venue out of 24

Despite the hikes, the Canadian race still ranks as the 12th most affordable Grand Prix according to the travel‑site GPDestinations, which places Miami and Las Vegas at the top of the price chart. Jeff Lambert, director of brand and communications for the race organizers, explained that rising operational costs force “pricing adjustments … to maintain the high standards of quality, safety and innovation that fans expect.”

Merchandise costs push fan budgets beyond $1,000

Official team jackets now fetch $500 or more, jerseys exceed $300, and caps range between $70 and $135, according to the event’s merchandise catalogue. Emma Lustigman, a repeat visitor from New York, paid $1,300 for a Grandstand ticket this year—up from $350 on the resale market two years earlier—yet still found it cheaper than the $1,600 she spent in Las Vegas.

General admission fans spend up to $3,000 on a weekend

First‑time attendee Kim Luong and her boyfriend bought General Admission tickets at roughly $300 each, but total expenses—including travel from Toronto and an Airbnb stay—ranged between $2 ,000 and $3 ,000. Luong noted that General Admission requires early arrival to claim prime fence spots, adding to the logistical challenges of a budget‑friendly experience.

Who can still afford the Paddock Club?

The ultra‑exclusive Paddock Club, likened to a “luxury resort above the pit lane,” can cost over $10,000 for a weekend, offering gourmet catering, open bars, and live commentary via headsets. Nicholas Curtis, a Kia parts manager from Albany, earned a free Paddock Club pass by topping Pirelli’s regional sales leaderboard, highlighting how corporate partnerships continue to dominate the sport’s most elite access.