IndyCar’s eagerly awaited debut at the Streets of Markham has encountered a major setback. Incomplete track preparations on Friday forced officials to postpone the inaugural race sessions.
Incomplete track components—such as race bridges, safety fencing, and timing and scoring infrastructure—have impeded Green Savoree Race Promotions from completing the temporary circuit.
The disruption began early in the event schedule. The customary Thursday track walk was postponed to Friday morning, leaving drivers and teams to review the layout while construction crews worked. Teams were also advised by the series to delay loading equipment onto the dual‑sided pit lane until late Thursday afternoon.
Track sessions were initially set to commence Friday at 8 a.m. ET with support categories, but vehicles could not yet use the circuit. Later that day, IndyCar announced that the first practice session, scheduled for 3:05 p.m. ET, was also suspended.
IndyCar released an update on social media:
‘As preparations continue at the Streets of Markham circuit, today’s NTT IndyCar Series Practice 1 session, scheduled for 3:05 PM ET, is on hold.
‘Once the race promoter has completed the track build and INDYCAR deems the circuit safe and appropriate for competition, the first on-track session of the weekend will begin.
‘Further updates will be provided throughout the afternoon.’
The event represents a significant shift in IndyCar’s Canadian presence. Announced on September 3, 2025, the move to Markham replaced Toronto’s Exhibition Place, the home of IndyCar racing since the 1980s.
Situated in the eastern part of Markham’s downtown district, the newly designed 12‑turn, 2.19‑mile temporary circuit presents a challenging technical layout, featuring short straights, heavy‑braking sectors, and a double‑sided pit lane.
Officials and promoters are working tirelessly to complete safety installations, enabling a safe commencement of racing. Additional schedule changes are anticipated as the day progresses.
