Markham is gearing up for a thrilling weekend as it hosts the NTT IndyCar Series and other motorsports events for the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy. While IndyCar has been a staple in Toronto since 1986, this marks the first time the race will be held outside the city on a brand-new track layout.
The 3.52-kilometre, 12-turn course will traverse the Unionville GO station grounds, the York University Markham Campus, and the Markham Pan Am Centre. To ease access to the track, attendees are advised to utilize GO Transit, York Region Transit, or drive via Highway 407. Parking will be available west of the event grounds.
Metrolinx is ramping up service on the Stouffville Line with additional trips from Union Station to Unionville GO in the mornings and afternoons on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Enhanced York Region Transit services and shuttle services from designated parking lots to the event site are also in place.
Residents in Markham have endured track construction impacts, including limited parking at Unionville GO, road repaving, and the installment of grandstands and retainer walls. Some roads, like parts of Enterprise Boulevard, Kennedy Road, and others, will remain closed until Monday at 6 a.m., with continued closures for track teardown until August 27.
The highlight of the weekend is the IndyCar race on Sunday, with Spaniard Alex Palou leading the points and poised as the favorite to win. Other contenders 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 be competing in support series races.
Drivers are adjusting to the new Markham track, appreciating the smooth surface and unique challenges it presents. Tickets are available for Saturday and Sunday, with Friday’s practice and qualifying sessions open to the public for free under Fan Friday, with donations encouraged for Make-A-Wish Canada.
