After numerous years of high-speed racing along Toronto’s lakeshore, the city of Markham has been chosen as the new host for the NTT IndyCar Series. While many residents in Markham are excited about this development, not everyone is eager to join in the celebration.
The relocation of the race signifies a significant milestone for the city, with an expected influx of approximately 150,000 attendees annually for a weekend event. Marcos Yu, the general manager of the Hilton Markham Suites, expressed his enthusiasm, stating that this opportunity will allow them to showcase the hotel, the city, its food industry, and hospitality.
Yu mentioned ongoing renovations at the Hilton Markham Suites, set to be finalized before the event, and he is looking forward to highlighting the hotel and the city’s offerings. He emphasized the presence of wineries, unique venues, and attractions within a short distance of Markham, hoping that guests will explore these hidden gems in addition to enjoying the IndyCar race.
Mayor Frank Scarpitti highlighted the economic benefits of hosting the race during a news conference, mentioning an estimated annual economic impact of $50 million on the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). He emphasized that not only Markham stands to gain but also neighboring communities will benefit from the event.
Organizers stated that Markham’s location will offer a more convenient commute for the majority of fans, who can utilize major highways, the Unionville GO Station, or the VIVA Rapid Transit system to access the event. Additionally, accommodations in Markham are expected to be more affordable compared to downtown Toronto.
However, some residents have expressed reservations about the new race location, emphasizing the lack of public consultation. Joska Zerczi, president of the Unionville Residents Association, and Shanta Sundarason raised concerns about noise pollution, traffic congestion, and community impact due to the sudden announcement of the race relocation.
In response to the residents’ concerns, a spokesperson for Amica Senior Lifestyles mentioned their commitment to ensuring the well-being of residents and team members amid the event. The City of Markham stated that consultations with local stakeholders directly affected by the racetrack had taken place before the public announcement, with no significant concerns raised during those discussions.
Despite some consultations occurring beforehand, residents and workers in the city feel that a more inclusive community meeting should have been held to address their questions and potential impacts. They hope to be actively involved in the dialogue leading up to the race weekend scheduled for August 14 to 16, 2026.