Streets of Markham

Track Info

Location	Markham, Ontario, Canada
Type	Street Circuit
Length	2.19 miles (3.52 km)
Turns	12
Surface	Temporary asphalt (city streets)
Capacity	~140,000 expected over 3-day weekend
Opened	2026 (inaugural season)

Track Characteristics

The Streets of Markham represent IndyCar's return to Canada with a fresh venue that replaces the long-running Toronto street race. The 2.19-mile, 12-turn circuit was designed by Tony Cotman of NZR Consulting, the same architect behind the Arlington and Detroit street layouts, and is situated in the eastern precinct of Markham's downtown district. The track is bounded by Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, the Unionville GO railway, and Highway 407.

Cotman's design features long straights that will produce high speeds for a street circuit, combined with technical corners that reward precision. A standout feature is the double-sided pit lane, a rare design element that was first used at IndyCar's Detroit and Arlington street races. This layout allows for garages on both sides of the pit lane, improving team logistics and creating a more compact paddock arrangement.

The inaugural Markham Indy is expected to be the largest sports and cultural celebration in York Region's history. The three-day event from August 14-16 is projected to draw over 140,000 attendees and generate significant economic activity. Markham's growing downtown district provides a modern, purpose-built setting that avoids the logistical challenges of racing through older urban infrastructure.

Getting There

Nearest Airport	Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) - approximately 40 minutes west. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) is about 45 minutes southwest. Note: U.S. fans will need a passport or enhanced driver's license to enter Canada.
Nearest City	Markham, ON (the track is in downtown). Toronto is about 30 km (20 miles) southwest.

Series That Race Here

• NTT IndyCar Series - Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham (inaugural 2026)
• Indy NXT by Firestone - Support race

2026 Event Info

Race Name	Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham
Round	14 of 17
Date	August 16, 2026
TV	FOX
Race Time	12:00 PM ET
Qualifying	Firestone Fast 6 knockout format
Weekend	August 14-16, 2026 (3-day festival)

Track Record

Note	2026 is the inaugural race - all times set will be new track records

Notable Past Races

• 2026 (Inaugural): The first-ever IndyCar race in Markham. This event replaces the long-running Honda Indy Toronto, which had been a fixture on the calendar since 1986.
• Toronto legacy (1986-2025): The Honda Indy Toronto on Exhibition Place produced decades of memorable racing, including dramatic wins by drivers like Scott Dixon, Will Power, and Alex Palou. Markham inherits this rich Canadian open-wheel racing tradition.
• Canadian IndyCar history: Canada has a deep connection to IndyCar, with drivers like Paul Tracy, Jacques Villeneuve, and Greg Moore (whose passing in 1999 remains one of the sport's most tragic moments) thrilling fans at Canadian venues.

Track Facts

• Markham replaces Toronto as IndyCar's Canadian race venue under a multi-year deal signed in 2025.
• The double-sided pit lane is a rare feature that improves team operations and creates a unique paddock environment.
• Circuit designer Tony Cotman also created the Arlington and Detroit street circuit layouts for IndyCar.
• The event is expected to be the largest sports and cultural celebration in York Region's history, drawing over 140,000 attendees.
• Honda's involvement as title sponsor (Ontario Honda Dealers) underscores the manufacturer's commitment to Canadian motorsport fans.

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