Markham is gearing up for a thrilling weekend as it hosts the NTT IndyCar Series, including the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy event. The race will take place on a brand-new track layout, marking the first time the event is held outside Toronto since its inception in 1986.
The 3.52-kilometer, 12-turn course will wind through various locations, including the Unionville GO station grounds, York University Markham Campus, and the Markham Pan Am Centre. To help attendees reach the track, options include utilizing GO Transit, York Region Transit, or driving via Highway 407, with parking available west of the event grounds.
Metrolinx is enhancing services on the Stouffville Line to accommodate race spectators, offering 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 grounds are also available.
Residents have endured temporary road closures and construction impacts in preparation for the event, with parts of Enterprise Boulevard, Kennedy Road, YMCA Boulevard, University Boulevard, and South Unionville Boulevard closed until Monday morning, with some areas remaining affected until August 27 for track dismantling.
In the spotlight of the racing action is Spanish driver Alex Palou, the current IndyCar points leader and a strong favorite to win the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy. Other contenders to watch include Pato O’Ward, Kyle Kirkwood, David Malukas, Christian Lundgaard, and Rinus Veekay.
Local talent, such as Anthony Martella and Chase Pelletier, will also be competing 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 have noted the unique challenges of the Markham track, with its newly repaved smooth surface and unfamiliar layout providing an exciting and unpredictable racing experience. Tickets for the event can be purchased online, with Friday’s practice and qualifying sessions being free for attendees to enjoy as part of Fan Friday.