IndyCar - Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham

The Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham brings NTT INDYCAR SERIES racing to a new venue in Markham, Ontario. This indycar event marks a significant chapter for open-wheel racing in the region, with the action moving to the Streets of Markham in the city's downtown core. The race represents the 38th year the series has competed in Ontario and the 40th NTT INDYCAR SERIES race in the province, continuing a tradition that started in 1986.

About the Race

Green Savoree Toronto ULC promotes this three-day festival of racing. The Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham offers fans a chance to watch the full field of NTT INDYCAR SERIES teams and drivers compete on a purpose-built street circuit. The event is anticipated to be the largest sports and cultural celebration in York Region's history, with projections suggesting more than 140,000 attendees will visit over the race period.

The Circuit

Tony Cotman of NZR Consulting designed the temporary street circuit for the Streets of Markham. The track layout spans 2.19 miles (3.52 km) and features 12 turns. The circuit occupies the eastern precinct of downtown Markham, with boundaries at Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, the Unionville GO railway tracks, and Highway 407.

The track includes long straightaways and technical sectors that will test driver skill. A double-sided pit lane adds a unique element to the circuit design, similar to configurations used at races in Detroit and Arlington. This feature creates strategic options for teams during pit stops.

The city prepared for the event by widening and modifying several roads. Enterprise Blvd, YMCA Blvd, Unionville Gate, University Blvd, and Kennedy Road received resurfacing or realignment work. The downtown Markham location provides access through major highways, the Unionville GO Station, and the VIVA Rapid Transit system.

Racing Series and Competitors

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES fields a highly competitive group of teams and drivers. While the specific entry list for the Markham race will be announced closer to the event, fans can expect the full series contingent to participate. Recent series races have featured winners such as Alex Palou at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, Josef Newgarden at Phoenix Raceway, and Kyle Kirkwood at the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington.

Technical Details

IndyCar technical regulations require all teams to use Dallara chassis. The series features competition between two engine manufacturers: Chevrolet and Honda. Firestone supplies all tires for the series, and Shell V-Power provides the race fuel.

The temporary street circuit at Markham presents specific technical challenges. The 12-turn layout with tight sections will require teams to optimize car setup for nimble handling and strong braking. The double-sided pit lane configuration will influence race strategy, as teams work to maximize their pit stop efficiency and timing.

A New Home for Ontario IndyCar Racing

The move to Markham stems from the 2026 FIFA World Cup taking place at Exhibition Place, which hosted the Honda Indy Toronto since 1986. The City of Markham actively pursued the opportunity to host indycar racing, resulting in a multi-year agreement that establishes Markham Centre as a permanent fixture on the NTT INDYCAR SERIES calendar.

Markham, a fast-growing community northeast of Toronto, offers a fitting location for this event. Honda Canada maintains its headquarters in Markham, creating a natural connection to the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham. The city also holds personal significance for the series, as IndyCar race winner and commentator James Hinchcliffe was born there.

Economic Impact and Community Connection

The race is expected to generate tens of millions of dollars in economic activity for the region. The event will support approximately 10,000 jobs through sport tourism, hospitality, and event services. This economic boost demonstrates the value of hosting a major indycar race in Markham, Ontario.

The Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham promises to deliver competitive racing on a challenging street circuit while celebrating nearly four decades of indycar tradition in Ontario. The Streets of Markham will showcase top-tier open-wheel racing in a dynamic urban setting with strong regional connections and modern facilities.