Markham is gearing up for an exciting weekend as it hosts the NTT IndyCar Series, featuring the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy along with various other motorsports series. While IndyCar has traditionally raced in Toronto since 1986, this marks the first time the event will be held outside the city on a brand-new track layout.
The 3.52-kilometre, 12-turn course will span across the Unionville GO station grounds, taking drivers through the York University Markham Campus and the Markham Pan Am Centre. To ease transportation to the event, attendees are encouraged to utilize GO Transit, York Region Transit, or drive via Highway 407. Parking will be available west of the event grounds.
Metrolinx is enhancing service on the Stouffville Line with additional trips from Union Station to Unionville GO and vice versa, as well as a new trip from Burlington GO to Union Station on select mornings. Furthermore, increased York Region Transit services and shuttle services from parking lots to the event venue in Markham are being provided.
Residents of Markham have experienced construction impacts in preparation for the event, including restrictions on parking spaces at Unionville GO and road closures on Enterprise Boulevard, Kennedy Road, YMCA Boulevard, University Boulevard, and South Unionville Boulevard. These closures will persist until Monday morning, with some roads affected until August 27 for track dismantling.
The main event on Sunday is the IndyCar race, with the green flag set for 12:22 p.m. ET. Spanish driver Alex Palou, the current points leader, is the favorite to win after a successful season, while other contenders include Pato O’Ward, Kyle Kirkwood, David Malukas, Christian Lundgaard, and Rinus Veekay. Local talent like Anthony Martella and Chase Pelletier will also be competing in support series races.
Drivers have expressed excitement and anticipation for the new track layout in Markham, highlighting its smooth surface and unique challenges compared to Toronto’s bumpy roads. Tickets for Saturday and Sunday are available, with Friday’s practice and qualifying sessions open to the public for free during Fan Friday, with donations to Make-A-Wish Canada encouraged upon entry.