The Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières (GP3R) is ready to write a new chapter in 2026. In direct response to the growing popularity of NASCAR Canada and the strong demand from fans, the event will adopt a fully renewed format, including, for the first time ever, two official qualifying races on Saturday and a main finale on Sunday. In total, three NASCAR Canada races will energize the weekend from August 7 to 9.
This innovative format puts GP3R in a category of its own. Aside from the Daytona 500 itself, no other NASCAR event sets its starting grid using two qualifying duels. It’s a prestigious distinction for the legendary Trois-Rivières street circuit, known for decades for its unique atmosphere and unwavering commitment to motorsport.
“Fans have been telling us for a while: they wanted more NASCAR, more action, more battles on track. We decided to go all in with two duels on Saturday, plus the big finale on Sunday. It’s exactly what the GP3R crowd wants to see,” explained Dominic Fugère, GP3R General Manager.
Drivers Welcome the Change with Enthusiasm
Several well-known NASCAR Canada figures see this new format as a stimulating sporting challenge and a chance to deliver an even more impressive show.
Three-time champion Marc-Antoine Camirand is thrilled to see the event raise the bar. “Three NASCAR races in the same weekend at GP3R… that’s tough to beat. More track time, more strategy, more battles, as a driver, you can’t ask for anything better,” he explained.
His fellow Trois-Rivières native Louis-Philippe Dumoulin, also a three-time series champion, expects an electric atmosphere in the streets. “GP3R is home. Two qualifying races leading into the big Sunday finale, that’s going to create a crazy buzz. For the fans, it’s incredible, ” he added.
For Jean-François Dumoulin, two-time winner of the 24 Hours of Daytona, this new format represents an added opportunity to chase a first NASCAR victory in front of his home crowd. “The new format gives us more chances to work on the car and fight on track. It increases the opportunities to go for a win, right here at home in Trois-Rivières,” he shared.
A Must-See Event in 2026
A flagship of Canadian motorsport, the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières takes a bold and historic step in 2026 with this all-new format. For NASCAR Canada, it represents a unique opportunity to offer fans an on-track experience that is more complete, competitive, and spectacular than ever.
Weekend tickets are already on sale starting at $85.25 at gp3r.com. Fans are encouraged to reserve their seats now to ensure they don’t miss what promises to be a truly memorable edition. The popular Friday Tailgate Country event will also be back, along with new additions to be announced in the coming months.