The opening practice session for the NTT IndyCar race at the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy in Markham has been delayed. Originally set 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 out of five car classifications to hit the track for practice or qualifying on the same day.
According to a spokesperson, the race promoter still needs to finish constructing the track and have IndyCar officials verify its safety and suitability for competition. The organizers of the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy in Markham expressed regret to spectators as the preparation delays for the new street circuit prevented cars from taking practice runs.
As of now, no vehicles have navigated the 12-turn, 3.52-kilometre road course in downtown Markham, impacting Friday’s practice sessions for six races scheduled for the weekend. Markham is hosting Canada’s sole IndyCar race 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, in conjunction with the City of Markham, disclosed the relocation 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.
On Friday, admission to Canada’s IndyCar race is complimentary, with attendees encouraged to donate to the Make-A-Wish Foundation instead of purchasing tickets. The Markham track is surrounded by thousands of fans enduring temperatures of 26°C or 31°C with humidity.
Activities off the track, such as autograph sessions with drivers, are proceeding as planned. Qualifying for the IndyCar race is slated for Saturday, with the main race scheduled for Sunday afternoon. Additionally, races for the USF2000 Championship, USF Pro 2000, Radical Cup Canada, and NASCAR Canada Series will also take place around the road circuit throughout the weekend.