2) The constant threat of the Wall of ChampionsThe final chicane is a tricky enough corner as it is, with cars decelerating from over 300km/h for a tight right-left with big kerbs waiting on each apex for those drivers who get it slightly wrong. But on the exit, there’s an iconic piece of track – with a piece of wall meant to welcome the drivers to the city, but instead became known for crashes involving the best drivers in the world – the Wall of Champions.In trying to carry as much speed as possible through the corner and onto the pit straight, drivers have to get as close to the barrier as possible. This is the corner that can gain drivers time, but it can also ruin the whole lap right at the end if they make a mistake. That is why no fewer than 3 drivers’ champions hit the wall on the outside of the final corner in 1999, thus giving the wall its now infamous name – Michael Schumacher, Damon Hill and home hero Jacques Villeneuve.Since then the wall was involved in a crash with Ricardo Zonta, then reigning FIA GT sports car champion, Formula 1 2016 World Champion Nico Rosberg, CART Champion Juan Pablo Montoya, Formula Renault 3.5 Champion Carlos Sainz Jr. and 2009 Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button. In 2011 Friday practice the wall claimed 4-time F1 Champion Sebastian Vettel, and during Q2 in 2019, another former Formula Renault 3.5 champion, Kevin Magnussen.3) Cars always pushed to the limit Not only do the drivers sometimes struggle with the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, but their equipment can also find it hard going as well. With lots of long straights and big stops, plenty of times the emphasis is placed on power unit performance and braking.Hence, by the end of the race, brakes can be a problem as drivers struggle to slow their cars, which is disconcerting at the best of times, let alone when there’s a wall waiting on the exit of so many corners.While the left pedal is getting worked hard, the right pedal is crucial as well since drivers spend so much of the lap at full throttle. As a result, Canadian Grand Prix is often a venue where teams introduce a power unit upgrade in search of more straight-line performance.
4) The noisy fansRight now, North and Central American Formula 1 fans have only 3 races on their continent, and with the United States and Mexico paired back-to-back late in the season, Canada stands alone in June.That means spectators from all over the continent travel in huge numbers to Montreal for the race weekend and they mean to be heard. The atmosphere produced at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve is one of the best of the season, with packed grandstands surrounding Turn 2 and the hairpin usually seeing plenty of action.Support is strong for all of the teams and the bridge onto the Ile Notre-Dame is always full of fans wearing a wide variety of team kit – current and old – as they file into the circuit, hoping to shout some words of encouragement to any drivers arriving at the same time.5) The amazing city The fans flood to Montreal because not only is the event at the track so spectacular, but the city itself is an awesome place to be.Downtown in Canada’s second-largest city is just across the Saint Lawrence River in which the Ile Notre-Dame sits and it’s an eclectic venue. While the old town offers up cobbled streets, cozy bars and cafes, classy restaurants and stunning architecture such as the Notre-Dame Basilica, there’s also the business district, a lively nightlife scene and the imposing Mont Royal itself that overlooks the city.Montreal comes alive with F1-specific events during race weekend and fans can take in live music as well as activities like a pit stop challenge all over the city, as it really embraces the Grand Prix.If you yourself are not a fan of Formula 1, that is okay too. You are welcome at our repair shop in Hamilton regardless. Visit us today!We are located only 4 min walking South West of Tim Hortons Field and 4 min walk West of Bernie Morelli Recreation Centre.Frequently Asked Questions
What services does CRS Automotive in Hamilton provide?
CRS Automotive is a full-service repair and maintenance centre handling cars, light-duty trucks and medium-duty vehicles. Services include inspections, diagnostics, preventive maintenance, oil changes, brakes, tires, steering and suspension, A/C and heating, engine and cooling system repairs, transmission and drivetrain work, electrical diagnostics, exhaust, battery and lighting repairs, electric and hybrid vehicle service, and fleet maintenance.
Do you service electric and hybrid vehicles?
Yes. CRS Automotive works on electric and hybrid vehicles, offering diagnostics, maintenance and repair services specific to these drivetrains alongside conventional vehicle care.
Where is CRS Automotive located and what are your hours?
CRS Automotive is located in Hamilton, Ontario. The service centre is open seven days a week and offers online appointment booking for customer convenience.
Can CRS Automotive handle fleet and medium‑duty truck maintenance?
Yes. CRS Automotive provides fleet vehicle maintenance and repair as well as service for light‑duty trucks and medium‑duty vehicles, supporting businesses with professional workmanship and dependable vehicle care.
How do you book an appointment and what can I expect during service?
You can book an appointment online through CRS Automotive’s booking system. During service you can expect professional diagnostics and repairs, clear communication about recommended work, and preventive maintenance or repairs performed to address identified issues.
