After spending years racing along Toronto’s lakeshore, Markham has now been chosen as the new starting point for the NTT IndyCar Series. While the news has sparked excitement among many in Markham, not everyone is rushing to join the celebration.
The relocation signifies a significant milestone for the city, expected to draw approximately 150,000 attendees annually for a weekend event. Marcos Yu, the general manager of the Hilton Markham Suites, expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting the opportunity to showcase the city’s assets, including its hospitality, food industry, and local attractions.
Yu mentioned ongoing renovations at the Hilton Markham Suites, set to be completed before the event, emphasizing the chance to exhibit the hotel and the city itself. He also emphasized the proximity of wineries and unique venues near Markham, hoping that guests will explore these offerings alongside the IndyCar race and spread the word.
At a recent news conference, Markham’s Mayor, Frank Scarpitti, emphasized the economic advantages of hosting the event, estimating an annual economic impact of $50 million on the Greater Toronto Area. He noted that not only Markham but also neighboring communities stand to benefit from the influx of visitors.
Organizers highlighted Markham’s strategic location, making it more accessible for fans through major highways, the Unionville GO Station, and the VIVA Rapid Transit system. Additionally, the city offers more affordable accommodation options compared to downtown Toronto.
However, not all residents view the new race location favorably. Some residents expressed disappointment at the lack of public consultation regarding the decision. Joska Zerczi, president of the Unionville Residents Association, and Shanta Sundarason raised concerns about noise pollution, traffic issues, and transportation challenges within the city.
Residents, including those at Amica Senior Lifestyles, expressed surprise at the announcement and concerns about the potential impact on their community. Melissa Armstrong, director of corporate communications at Amica, assured that they would prioritize the wellbeing of residents and team members while engaging with event organizers.
While the City of Markham stated that some consultations with directly impacted stakeholders had taken place before the announcement, residents and workers in the city expressed a desire for more transparency and community involvement in the planning process.
Residents hope to engage in discussions leading up to the event scheduled for Friday, August 14, to Sunday, August 16, 2026, to address their concerns and ensure their voices are heard.
