Shnaider in Canada GP link

Although Shnaider was born in Russia, he is now based in Toronto and a story in Le Journal de Montreal over the weekend claimed that a group of local businessmen had spoken to him about moving the country's F1 race away from Montreal.

The report suggested that the plans included the option of alternating the race between Montreal and Toronto, although it was not clear exactly where the race would be taking place.

A spokesman for Shnaider confirmed that an approach had been made, but was adamant that the matter was still in its very early stages - and that nothing would be done that damaged F1 within Canada.

"It's very recent, we haven't had time to explore it, but on the surface it seems encouraging," Ron Fine was quoted as saying. "I think it would be a great thing for the city of Toronto.

"Whether it's something that will actually pan out and survive due diligence and end up working, it's too early to say."