The Montreal International Auto Show will dedicate a special exhibition to Gilles Villeneuve during its 2026 event, tying the tribute to the upcoming release of a feature film chronicling the life of the legendary Quebec race car driver.
The show, presented by iA Auto and Home Insurance, runs from Jan. 16 to 25 at the Palais des congrès de Montréal. Organizers say the exhibition, titled The Gilles Villeneuve Universe, will be accessible throughout the show and designed as an immersive look at Villeneuve’s career and lasting influence on motorsport.
“It is only natural for the Montreal Auto Show to highlight the legacy of Gilles Villeneuve. His career, boldness and passion perfectly embody the automotive spirit,” said Denis Dessureault, executive vice-president of the Montreal Auto Show, in a statement. “The Montreal Auto Show 2026 aims to offer visitors an experience that is both historical and emotional.”
The space will feature historical artifacts, archival photographs and curated content highlighting Villeneuve’s rise from modest beginnings to global motorsports icon. Vehicles used during the filming of Villeneuve: The Ascent of a Legend will also be on display, including a reproduction of the Ferrari T2 driven by Villeneuve during his Formula One career.
The exhibition coincides with the planned 2026 theatrical release of the film, directed by Yan Lanouette Turgeon and produced by Christian Larouche. The film stars Rémi Goulet as Villeneuve and traces his rapid ascent in international motorsport. The tribute also aligns with the GV27 initiative, which aims to renew public engagement with Villeneuve’s legacy through digital platforms.
“I am very happy to join the film’s production team at the Montreal Auto Show,” said Mélanie Villeneuve in a statement. “This event is an exceptional platform to celebrate my father’s legacy.” Members of the film’s production team are expected to attend the show.
