The inaugural Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham experienced a setback at the starting line. The first day of practice and qualifying for the only IndyCar event in Canada was called off on Friday due to the unfinished track, preventing officials from conducting a final safety check. Organizers plan to accommodate the missed sessions on Saturday’s schedule.
Markham is hosting the event for the first time this year, following its relocation from Toronto’s Exhibition Place, where it had been held since its inception in 1986. IndyCar president J. Douglas Boles expressed disappointment over the delay in track completion despite significant support from the onsite team.
Longtime race attendees Mark Coburn of Kitchener, Ont., and Scott Stobo of Waterloo, Ont., shared mixed feelings about the delayed sessions. Coburn acknowledged the importance of ensuring a safe track, while Stobo remarked on the unusual setting of Markham for the event, suggesting alternative locations like Canadian Tire Motorsport Park.
The move to Markham was announced by IndyCar and the City of Markham last September. The temporary circuit, constructed for the first time this week, spans between Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, the Unionville GO tracks, and Highway 407. Incomplete features included a pedestrian bridge over Enterprise Boulevard and safety fencing modifications for marshals.
Government investments in the event totaled $5 million, with substantial contributions from the Ontario and federal governments. Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti confirmed significant capital spending for infrastructure upgrades related to the race.
Friday’s events attracted thousands of fans with temperatures reaching up to 31°C with humidity. Limited shade and seating options were noted by spectators, highlighting differences from the previous venue at Exhibition Place. Off-track activities proceeded as planned, including autograph sessions with drivers.
Saturday’s schedule will be packed with IndyCar’s practice sessions and qualifying round, following a traditional road course knockout format in the early evening. The city of Markham received praise for providing a challenging yet thrilling circuit for the upcoming races.
In addition to IndyCar, other racing series like USF2000 Championship, USF Pro 2000, Radical Cup Canada, and NASCAR Canada Series will also feature races on the road course throughout the weekend. Despite the delays, fans are looking forward to the exciting races set to unfold in Markham.