Ontario Construction News staff writer
Construction has kicked off at the festival site and temporary street circuit in Markham, as the city gets ready to welcome the only NTT INDYCAR SERIES race in Canada, starting in 2026. The race, which used to take place at Exhibition Place in downtown Toronto, will shift to Markham Centre, the vibrant downtown area of the city, from Aug. 14-16.
Markham, located right next to Toronto’s northeastern border in York Region, is home to over 1.25 million people and is growing quickly. The downtown area hosts several Canadian corporate headquarters, the York University Markham Campus, and the Markham Pan Am Centre, which was a significant venue during the 2015 Pan Am and Parapan Am Games.
“We are excited to welcome the exhilarating experience of INDYCAR SERIES racing hitting our streets in 2026,” said Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “Markham is ready to build on its strong sports legacy and offer a new home where this celebrated summer tradition can thrive.
“I am extremely proud of our team at the City of Markham for bringing this initiative across the finish line in just a matter of months.”
The temporary track, designed by Tony Cotman of NZR Consulting, will run through the eastern part of downtown Markham between Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, Unionville GO tracks and Highway 407. This 12-turn circuit spans 3.52 kilometres (2.19 miles) and will feature dual pit lanes along with long straightaways and technically challenging sections. Initial work on both the track and festival site is being coordinated with Metrolinx and other local partners.
The relocation from Exhibition Place was partly influenced by preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup that will utilize BMO Field near Toronto’s fairgrounds as well as scheduling needs for the Toronto Argonauts. Jeff Atkinson mentioned that future development plans at Exhibition Place also played a role in this decision.
“Sport tourism is a major economic driver for our province, and I am thrilled that this iconic event will continue to call Ontario home,” said Ontario’s Minister of Sport, Neil Lumsden. “This event will continue to drive tourism, boost our economy, and strengthen Ontario’s reputation as a premier destination for world-class sporting events.”
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES stands out as North America’s leading open-wheel racing competition with drivers hitting speeds over 370 kph (230 mph). Alongside the famous Indianapolis 500, this series features various races across ovals, temporary street circuits, and permanent road courses throughout North America. Penske Entertainment Corp., which owns INDYCAR, expressed enthusiasm about Markham being added as a new venue.
“We could not be more pleased to see the rich history of NTT INDYCAR SERIES racing continue in Ontario,” said Mark Miles, president and CEO of Penske Entertainment. “Markham is a growing, diverse and dynamic city that will provide an excellent showcase for our thrilling wheel-to-wheel racing.”
The Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham is expected to attract more than 140,000 attendees during its three-day weekend.
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