The 1979 Canadian Grand Prix was a Formula One motor race held on 30 September 1979 at the Circuit ÃÂle Notre-Dame, Montreal.
During practice Niki Lauda announced his retirement from Formula One (he subsequently returned in 1982 with McLaren). The Brabham team, who had replaced their Alfa Romeo-engined BT48 with the Cosworth DFV-engined BT49, recruited Argentine newcomer Ricardo Zunino as Lauda's replacement.
The organizers would not let the Alfa Romeo factory team compete unless they pre-qualified. They refused to do so but a compromise was reached where one of their drivers would be allowed to take part in practice. The other, Bruno Giacomelli, was not allowed to enter the race.
The race turned into a close duel between Alan Jones and Gilles Villeneuve that continued the entire race.
As of 2024, Regazzoni's podium remains the last for a Swiss driver in Formula One.