Markham is gearing up for the excitement of the NTT IndyCar Series this weekend with the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy event. While IndyCar has a history in Toronto, this will mark the first time the race is held outside the city on a brand-new track layout.
The 3.52-kilometre, 12-turn course will wind through the Unionville GO station grounds, the York University Markham Campus, and the Markham Pan Am Centre. To help attendees get to the track, options include using GO Transit, York Region Transit, or driving via Highway 407 with parking available west of the event grounds.
Metrolinx is enhancing Stouffville Line service with additional trips from Union Station to Unionville GO on weekend mornings and evenings. York Region Transit will also offer increased service, and shuttle service will run between designated parking lots and the event venue.
Residents have experienced disruptions due to track construction, including limited parking at Unionville GO and road closures on Enterprise Boulevard, Kennedy Road, YMCA Boulevard, University Boulevard, and South Unionville Boulevard until Monday morning, with ongoing impacts until August 27 for track teardown.
The main event on Sunday features IndyCar racing, with Alex Palou leading the points standings and favored to win. Other contenders to watch include Pato O’Ward, Kyle Kirkwood, David Malukas, Christian Lundgaard, and Rinus Veekay. Local talent like Anthony Martella and Chase Pelletier will also compete in support series races.
Drivers are adapting to the new Markham track, noting the smooth surface and unique challenges compared to Toronto. Tickets for the weekend races are available for purchase on the event website, with Friday’s practice and qualifying sessions open to the public for free as part of Fan Friday, with donations encouraged for Make-A-Wish Canada.
