Markham is gearing up for a thrilling motorsports weekend as it hosts the NTT IndyCar Series, including the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy event. While IndyCar has historically raced in Toronto, this marks the first time the event will take place outside the city on a brand-new track layout.
The 3.52-kilometre, 12-turn circuit will traverse the Unionville GO station premises, with drivers also navigating around the York University Markham Campus and the Markham Pan Am Centre. To reach the track, attendees are advised to utilize GO Transit, York Region Transit, or drive via Highway 407, with parking available west of the event area.
Metrolinx is enhancing Stouffville Line services to facilitate transportation to and from the venue. Additional GO Transit trips from Union Station to Unionville GO on the weekend mornings and afternoons are scheduled, along with increased York Region Transit services and shuttle services from designated parking lots to the event site.
Residents have endured construction disruptions in preparation for the race, with road closures affecting parts of Enterprise Boulevard, Kennedy Road, YMCA Boulevard, University Boulevard, and South Unionville Boulevard until Monday morning, with some restrictions extending until August 27 for track dismantling.
The spotlight will be on the racing action, with the IndyCar main event set for Sunday at 12:22 p.m. ET. Leading the pack is Alex Palou, the current points leader and a formidable contender for victory. Alongside Palou, drivers to watch include Pato O’Ward, Kyle Kirkwood, David Malukas, Christian Lundgaard, and Rinus Veekay.
Local talents like Anthony Martella and Chase Pelletier will also showcase their skills in support series races. Additionally, the NASCAR Canada Series will debut in Markham, featuring notable racers like Alex Tagliani, Sam Fellows, Marc-Antoine Camirand, and Jared Odrick.
Drivers are adjusting to the new track layout in Markham, appreciating the smoother surface compared to Toronto’s rough roads. The layout offers unique challenges, with elevation changes creating an intriguing street course. Ticket information for the event can be found on the official website, with Friday’s practice and qualifying sessions open to the public as part of Fan Friday.