Dumontier steps down as head of Grand Prix in Montreal

Francois Dumontier, president of Grand Prix de Formule 1 du Canada, stands in one of the new garages at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is seen in Montreal, Thursday, May 30, 2019. (Paul Chiasson/The Canadian Press)

François Dumontier is stepping down as president and CEO of the Octane Racing Group, the organization behind the Formula 1 (F1) Canadian Grand Prix.

“I am proud to leave a legacy of a world-class event – the most important sporting event in Canada, to the city of Montreal, to Quebec and to Canada," said Dumontier in a news release.

Dumontier had been in charge of Montreal Grand Prix operations since 1996, two years after taking over as coordinator. In 2002, he founded Octane Racing Group, before becoming president and CEO of the Grand Prix in 2009.

Jean-Philippe Paradis, vice-president of subscription sales at Bell Media, will take over from him.

"The Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix is one of Canada’s largest sporting and tourism events, attracting fans from all over the world, and I am excited to lead this amazing team going forward," said Paradis.

Dumontier will continue to act as a strategic advisor "to ensure a smooth transition."

Quebec Tourism Minister Caroline Proulx praised Dumontier's contribution to Quebec tourism in a post on X.

"I respect his decision and highlight his commitment, his passion and his crucial role in the success of the most important tourist event in Quebec and Canada," she wrote.

Bell acquired Octane Racing Group operations in 2021. Friday's announcement comes from Bell. CTV News is a division of Bell Media, which is owned by BCE.