Kevin Harvick used his latest podcast to make a direct case for NASCAR’s future. Speaking on SPEED with Harvick and Buxton, the Hall of Famer pointed to one track he believes should host the Cup Series next: Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
The former champion answered a fan question about international racing by naming Montreal without hesitation. Harvick has raced there before and said the venue, along with its fan base, makes it a strong option. His comments come as NASCAR continues to look at ways to expand beyond the United States while keeping its core schedule intact.
Kevin Harvick Points to Montreal as the Top International Option
Kevin Harvick made his view clear during the podcast discussion. “The Cup Series has never been to Montreal. We used to take the O’Reilly Series up to Montreal. I love the fan base, I love the track, and we have so many NASCAR fans in Canada.”
Harvick raced at the track during its time on the Xfinity Series schedule. He won the first event there in 2007, holding off Patrick Carpentier in the closing laps. The race was part of a six-year run that also featured wins by drivers such as Carl Edwards and Justin Allgaier.
The circuit has a long history in motorsports. It has hosted the Formula One Canadian Grand Prix since 1978 and remains one of the most recognized road courses in North America.
NASCAR’s International Plans Remain in Focus
NASCAR has taken steps to expand its reach outside the United States. The Cup Series returned to Mexico City in 2025, marking its first international race in decades. The 2026 schedule, however, remains focused on domestic tracks.
Kevin Harvick reinforced his stance during the discussion. “For me, Montreal, with our fan base built in up there, Cup cars have never been there, and such a great circuit.”
Canada already hosts stock car racing through the NASCAR Canada Series. The series continues to run a full schedule across multiple tracks.
Alan Labrosse, general manager of the NASCAR Canada Series, outlined the series’ direction in December.
“The 2026 schedule reflects our continued commitment to offering a balanced and competitive season for our teams and our fans. With a variety of track types and strategic event spacing, we believe this calendar provides a strong foundation for both sporting and operational success.”
NASCAR officials have not announced any plans to add Montreal to the Cup schedule. Harvick’s comments add to the ongoing discussion about racing outside the United States, with Montreal standing out as a possible option.
Track History and Potential Cup Series Impact
Circuit Gilles Villeneuve presents a course layout suitable for Cup racing. The 2.71-mile track features long straights and tight chicanes. These elements create passing zones and reward strong braking and acceleration. The circuit also includes the “Wall of Champions,” known for catching drivers who push too hard.
Harvick’s past success at the track adds context to his recommendation. His 2007 win remains one of the notable moments from NASCAR’s time in Montreal. That race also included controversy, as Robby Gordon crossed the line first but was later disqualified.
NASCAR officials have not announced any plans to add Montreal to the Cup schedule. However, the discussion continues as the sport looks at future growth. Harvick’s comments have added to that conversation, pointing to a track with history, an active fan base, and prior NASCAR experience.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post NASCAR: Kevin Harvick Suggests New Venue for Cup Series Outside USA appeared first on Heavy Sports.