Style, Speed and Luxury: A Guide to F1 Pirelli Grand Prix du Canada

Watching cars whip around a track at terrifying speed is, admittedly, a thrill. But if you’re truly immersed in the world of Formula One, you know that’s only the beginning.

At its core, F1 is about luxury. It’s a sport where absurdly good-looking men and women (see: F1 Academy) wear designer leathers, six-figure watches and risk their lives driving at blistering speeds—for millions. For 24 weekends a year, drivers jet-set in private planes and yachts to locales resembling James Bond’s itinerary—Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Las Vegas, Montréal and Monaco—with a legion of fans trailing behind. According to American Express’ 2025 Global Travel Trends, half of Canadians are open to travelling for a sporting event, with 41% citing fandom as their top reason.

But unlike the tepid beer and unruly crowds of hockey or football games, Formula 1 offers a front-row seat to a world where horsepower meets high society. At a Grand Prix, spotting Tom Cruise in the Ferrari paddock with Met Gala co-chair Lewis Hamilton isn’t rare. Neither is a Louis Vuitton trunk cradling a golden trophy. And the winner dousing themselves in Moët & Chandon? Just part of the show.

Thanks to American Express, the official payments partner of Formula 1, I experienced the splendour and spoils of the 2025 Formula 1 Pirelli Grand Prix du Canada in Montreal from June 13 to 15. And even by this editor’s standards, it was undeniably lavish. With 360° Amex Platinum Cardmember benefits, I checked into a decadent Fine Hotels + Resorts hotel (hello, 4 p.m. checkout and complimentary breakfast), refreshed at Maison Amex—a chic, exclusive lounge—and watched the F1 race in sumptuous style, champagne in hand, naturally. And through Amex’s Shop Small program, I also discovered great local spots in Montreal to shop and dine.

Want to experience the indulgence yourself? Below, we have outlined the most luxurious itinerary at the Formula 1 Pirelli Grand Prix du Canada. Because once you’ve done F1 this way, there’s no going back.

The First Class Fanfare

Taking a 90-minute flight instead of a five-hour train to Montréal? Now that’s luxury. My business class seat let me breeze through security, but it was my honorary Amex Platinum Card that elevated the experience well before takeoff. Being a cardmember includes access to the Plaza Premium Lounge at Toronto’s Pearson airport—plus 1,400 other airport suites in 140 countries. That means endless Pinot Noir, Danish pastries, soft sofas, free Wi-Fi and, yes, bathrooms that are clean in any time zone. Très bon, indeed.

The Luxury Hotel

Step into the Vogue Hotel and you’ll swear you’ve left downtown Montréal behind. From check-in to check-out, you’re wrapped in a chic cocoon of white marble and walnut wood that fuses Scandinavian minimalism with mid-century moodiness. The lobby looks more like a contemporary art gallery than a concierge desk, while the suites feel spa-like—tailored for indulgence at its peak. And indulge I did. As the hotel is part of the Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts collection, I scored early check-in, late check-out, a complimentary breakfast and a room upgrade.

The VIP Viewing

Trackside views abound at the Formula 1 Pirelli Grand Prix du Canada, but what’s the best seat in the house? Let’s call it a tie between the Elite Suite and the Amex Trackside Lounge. Situated literally across the track from one another, the Elite Suite is a tented seating area accessible only by boat (#chic). Once back on dry land, prepare to luxuriate in deluxe chaise lounges, portable chargers and a lunch that, I kid you not, included rare steak filets. Bonus: multiple TVs for max visibility and Amex Race Radios that deliver live F1 and F1 Academy commentary.

You’ll also find these handy radios at various locations across the track, including the Amex Trackside Lounge, a viewing haven created specifically to bring cardholders closer to the action. Perched just shy of the start and finish lines—close enough to feel the G-force—it also offers a front-row view of the podium, and the ensuing champagne shower. Oh, and did we mention it has its own bar?

The Refined Restaurants

Are you a glitzy gourmand? If you’re not now, Montreal will surely convert you into one, as there are more than a few locals worthy of your silver spoon.

For the most exclusive experience, make your way to Maison Amex inbetween practice, qualifying and the race. Available for select American Express cardmembers, the lavish lounge provides a much-needed respite from the F1 frenzy, featuring custom cocktails and complimentary delectable bites from Chef Danny Smiles of the famed restaurant Le Violon. Consider him on retainer at Amex, as he’s involved in multiple Platinum Dining Experiences, offering his unique seafood-rich cuisine at each event.

The Sartorial Splurge

If New Yorkers have heard of Montreal’s Ruse Boutique, then you know it has to be good. Recently renovated, this not-so-hidden gem is a curated consignment shop that expertly merges affordability with affluence. When I headed to the shop on St. Laurent Boulevard, I tried on a multitude of green dresses, with a $100 ba&sh one making its way into my suitcase, and a $1,200 Prada lace slip haunting my dreams. Where did the Americans (and I!) hear of it? Consider Amex Maps a treasure map of sorts, with a custom filter to find local #ShopSmall businesses in dozens of cities in the world. #ShopSmall is Amex’s program to encourage Cardmembers to support their local spots through dedicated offers and resources. Also on the list? Maison Colorée, for all your butter hat and Scandi-girl homeware needs.

What to Wear

Naomi Schiff knows her way around a racecar track. Having been in the driver’s seat herself for 16 years, the British TV presenter and F1 Ambassador has seen it all, and more importantly, worn it all. Below, she tells FASHION her top tips for dressing for a luxurious F1 weekend.

Puma

Comfort is key. “I’ve worn heels once or twice and only had major regrets. There’s so much walking to do, and they’re just not fit for this purpose.”

Le Vin Papillon

Lean into the vibe of the city. “Try to find something that’s unique to the location. I always try to have fun with it and change my wardrobe to match [the].”

Canada Goose

Dress for the weather, not the trend. “There’s a lot of changeable conditions [it]. Bring some versatility to your outfit. A lightweight jacket is a must.”