During the week of the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix, roughly one in three vehicles reported stolen in Montreal were registered in the United States, according to police data. The figure, about 33 percent of all thefts, marks the highest share of U.S.-registered cars taken in three years.
The Formula 1 event brings a large influx of international visitors, with thousands arriving from the United States alone. Law‑enforcement officials noted that the surge in American‑registered vehicles on the streets coincided with a rise in thefts targeting those cars during the race weekend.
Overall vehicle theft numbers for the period remain consistent with recent trends, but the proportion involving U.S. plates stood out. Police reports show that the total number of stolen cars during the Grand Prix week rose compared with the same timeframe in previous years, and the share of American‑registered vehicles reached its strongest level since 2023.
Authorities emphasized that the increased presence of foreign‑registered automobiles can create additional opportunities for thieves, especially when large crowds gather in downtown areas and parking facilities are heavily used. The city’s traffic and security plans for the Grand Prix include heightened patrols and surveillance in high‑traffic zones, but the data indicates that thefts of U.S. cars still occurred at a notable rate.
The pattern aligns with earlier observations that major sporting events can influence crime statistics, particularly when they attract visitors from outside the region. Police continue to monitor the situation and advise owners of U.S.-registered vehicles to take standard precautions, such as using secure parking and ensuring anti‑theft devices are active.
The findings will be part of the post‑event analysis conducted by municipal authorities, who will assess the effectiveness of security measures and consider adjustments for future editions of the Grand Prix.