The initial practice session for the NTT IndyCar race at the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy in Markham has been delayed. Originally planned for 3:05 p.m. local time, the 90-minute training session for North America’s top open-wheel racing series was supposed to be the fourth group out of five to hit the track for practice or qualifying today.
A representative informed the media that the race organizer is still finalizing the track setup and awaiting approval from IndyCar officials to ensure the circuit is safe and suitable for competition. The Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham expressed regret to fans as delays in preparing the new street course prevented cars from taking practice runs.
As of now, no vehicles have navigated the 12-turn, 3.52-kilometer road layout in downtown Markham, impacting Friday’s practice sessions for six races scheduled for the weekend. This marks the inaugural year of Markham hosting Canada’s sole IndyCar event, following the relocation from Toronto’s Exhibition Place, where the race had been held since its inception in 1986.
The decision to move the event to Markham was disclosed 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.
Friday’s IndyCar race in Canada is open to the public, with attendees encouraged to contribute to the Make-A-Wish Foundation instead of purchasing tickets. Numerous fans are present around the Markham track, with temperatures reaching 26 degrees Celsius or 31 degrees with humidity.
Off-track activities, such as driver autograph sessions, are proceeding as planned. Qualifying for the IndyCar race is slated for Saturday, followed by the main race on Sunday afternoon. Additionally, the USF2000 Championship, USF Pro 2000, Radical Cup Canada, and NASCAR Canada Series will be holding races on the road course throughout the weekend.