Big news—the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy is coming to Markham! Starting August 14 – August 16, 2026, Markham will host the only Canadian stop on the NTT INDYCAR SERIES calendar—and it’s kind of a big deal.
So ... what IS the Indy?
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is one of North America’s top racing championships, featuring elite drivers competing at speeds over 370 km/h. What makes Indy especially exciting is its variety. Through the season drivers race on different types of tracks: street circuits (like Markham), road courses or ovals (including the famous Indianapolis 500). Each type of track requires different skills making the race unpredictable and fun to watch.
Indy vs Formula 1 (F1) - What's the difference?
You’ve probably heard of Formula 1—but IndyCar has its own unique vibe. Here’s the simple version:
- IndyCars are built to certain specifications. The cars are more uniform, using the same chassis, engine size and type of tires.
- In F1 each team builds their own car so engineering plays a bigger role
- IndyCars don't have power steering so drivers really feel the car and driving is more physical
There are usually more cars on an Indy car track which impacts racing dynamics and strategies. In short: Indy is all about driver skill, strategy, and side-by-side racing.
What happens during race weekend?
An Indy race isn’t just one event—it’s a full weekend experience:
- Friday: Practice sessions (drivers learn the track)
- Saturday: Qualifying (sets the starting order)
- Sunday: Race day!
Race basics
If you’re completely new, here are a few simple things to watch for:
- Cars start based on their qualifying position (the “grid”)
- Drivers may pit (stop) for fuel, tires, or adjustments
- Strategy—for example, when to pit—is just as important as speed
- Caution periods (yellow flags) can bunch the cars back up, creating more action
- The driver who finishes first wins, but points are awarded based on finishing position. Bonus points can also be earned - for securing pole position, leading a lap, etc. The driver with the most points at the end of the season is the NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion.
Flags you'll hear about
You’ll hear commentators calling out colours—here’s what they mean:
- Green = Go!
- Yellow = Slow down (something happened)
- Red = Stops the race due to unsafe conditions
- White = Final lap
- Checkered = Race over!
A few Indy terms to know
You don’t need to know everything—but these will help you follow along:
- Apex – the inside point of a turn that drivers aim for in order to get maximum speed through a corner
- Apron - a flat paved section that separates the racetrack from the infeld. It's not intended for racing.
- Downforce – the wings on the car create a downforce what helps keep the car “glued” to the track to improve grip and cornering ability
- Drive-Through Penalty - a penalty that requires the driver to enter the pit lane at pit speed without stopping. This costs the driver time and track position.
- Pit lane – where cars stop for service. The Markham course features a double pit lane.
- Pole position – the front starting spot
- Push-to-pass – a speed boost drivers can use for a temporary increase in engine power that assists in passing and defense.
Why it matters and why it's exciting
The Honda Indy coming to Markham means:
- a world class sporting event right in our backyard
- a high energy festival atmosphere (you don't need to be a racing expert to enjoy it)
- A chance to experience something fast, fun and unforgettable
The Markham track will be a street circuit meaning the race happens on a temporary course built through the streets of Markham Centre - bringing the action right to the community. You don’t need to be a “car person” to enjoy Indy racing. If you like speed, strategy, and edge-of-your-seat moments, you’re already halfway there.
Whether you’re curious, excited, or just want to check out something new—this is the perfect time to get to know the Indy. Visit the City of Markham's Ontario Honda Dealers Indy web page to learn more.
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