IndyCar Series Shifts to Markham: A New Era for Canadian Motorsports
In an exciting development for racing fans and the city of Markham, Ontario, the IndyCar Series has officially announced that it will relocate its Canadian event from Toronto to a new street circuit in Markham starting in 2026. This decision was revealed by Mayor Frank Scarpitti during a press conference, where he expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming race. The move marks a significant change for the IndyCar Series, which has enjoyed a long-standing presence in Toronto since 1986.
The Need for a New Venue
The primary catalyst for this shift stems from logistical challenges associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. As a result, the IndyCar Series needed to find a new home for its Canadian race. Collaborating with Green Savoree Race Promotions, IndyCar, and local officials, the city of Markham emerged as the perfect location for this prestigious event. This transition is part of a multi-year agreement that will see the race take place annually starting next August.
Markham: A Growing Community
Markham, strategically located just northeast of Toronto, is one of Ontario’s fastest-growing cities. With a population exceeding 1.25 million, it boasts a diverse community and a vibrant economic landscape. The race will be held in Markham Centre, the city’s bustling downtown area that hosts numerous corporate headquarters, the Markham Campus of York University, and the Markham Pan Am Centre, which played a critical role during the 2015 Pan Am and Parapan Am Games.
The new circuit’s location offers exceptional access for racing enthusiasts, thanks to its proximity to Highway 407 and other major 400-series highways. Additionally, the Unionville GO Station and the VIVA Rapid Transit system will facilitate easy transportation for attendees, making it convenient for fans from across the region.
Anticipated Impact of the Event
The Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham is poised to become one of the largest sports and cultural events in York Region’s history. Organizers expect to attract over 140,000 attendees over the three-day weekend, which is projected to generate millions in economic impact through tourism, hospitality, and event-related services. Mayor Scarpitti emphasized the significance of this event for Markham, declaring it a milestone in the city’s journey as a host of world-class events.
Scarpitti remarked, "Around this time next year, the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham will transform the streets of our city into a racing crucible, testing the limits of some of the world’s fastest drivers and welcoming fans from around the globe to watch it all unfold." His enthusiasm reflects the city’s commitment to making the IndyCar event a memorable experience for both local residents and visitors.
Circuit Design and Features
The temporary street circuit in Markham will be constructed within the city’s eastern downtown precinct, bordered by Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, the Unionville GO tracks, and Highway 407. The design of the circuit is in the capable hands of renowned track architect Tony Cotman from NZR Consulting. The layout will feature 12 turns, spanning a distance of 2.19 miles, complete with a double-sided pit lane, extended high-speed straights, and technically challenging sections that will put drivers’ skills to the test.
Preparatory work on the circuit and surrounding festival area is already underway, involving collaboration with Metrolinx and various local partners to ensure a seamless experience for fans and participants alike.
A Future of Excitement
Mark Miles, President and CEO of Penske Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm for the continuation of IndyCar racing in Ontario. He stated, "We could not be more pleased to see the rich history of NTT IndyCar Series racing continue in Ontario. Markham is a growing, diverse, and dynamic city that will provide a terrific showcase for our exhilarating wheel-to-wheel racing."
Miles also highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong connection with Canadian fans, emphasizing that the IndyCar Series looks forward to this new chapter beginning next year. Jeff Atkinson, president of the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham, echoed these sentiments, stating that Green Savoree Toronto is excited about the multi-year agreement with Markham, which ensures the continuation of this motorsports tradition in Ontario.
The Legacy of IndyCar Racing in Ontario
The move to Markham represents a new chapter while honoring the rich legacy of the IndyCar Series in Ontario. The event, which began in 1986, has been a celebrated tradition for motorsports enthusiasts in Canada. The collaboration between the city of Markham, IndyCar, and Green Savoree Toronto aims to build upon this legacy, creating a thrilling experience for fans, drivers, and teams alike.
The inaugural Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham will not only spotlight the excitement of high-speed racing but will also serve as a platform for community engagement, tourism, and economic growth. With the potential to attract visitors from across the globe, the event is set to put Markham on the map as a premier destination for motorsports.
Conclusion
As the countdown to the inaugural Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham begins, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exhilarating event in 2026. The new street circuit and the collaborative efforts of local leaders, racing organizations, and community partners will pave the way for a successful and memorable experience for all involved.
With its rich history and commitment to excellence, the IndyCar Series is ready to embrace this new chapter in Markham, ensuring that the spirit of motorsports continues to thrive in Ontario for years to come. Fans, drivers, and teams alike can look forward to a spectacular showcase of racing talent, captivating the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts everywhere.
