What to Expect at the Markham Ontario GP

The IndyCar grid is returning to the neighbors up north over the weekend. They’re taking on the new streets of Markham, Ontario, for the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham race. This is one of the newest locations for a race for the 2026 season. 

The 2.19 mile track is making its debut after a successful run in the streets of Toronto. The layout of the track features 12 turns and a double-sided pit lane, similar to the Detroit street circuit. It runs through the downtown area of Markham, bringing adrenaline to the city streets. 

Last season’s Canadian race was thrilling, with Pato O’Ward taking the chequered flag in first. Rinus Veekay, who was with Dale Coyne at the time, took second place, while Kyffin Simpson from Chip Ganassi took third. 

Alex Palou, the current championship leader, finished last year’s race in 12th. However, he eventually went on to win his fourth Indycar title. After a win in Portland, he looks to keep his momentum going and secure another victory. 

Palou currently leads the field in the championship standings. He’s trailed by Kyle Kirkwood, David Malukas, Christian Lundgaard, O’Ward, and Felix Rosenqvist. 

Rosenqvist has had tremendous momentum this season. He took home the crown jewel of the Indy 500, four top-5 finishes, and six top-10 finishes. He finished second in Portland, and has claimed two Pole Positions this season, one in Long Beach, and the other in Portland. 

Kirkwood has shown strength on street courses. In the 2025 season, he won the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, and the Streets of Detroit, while also winning at the World Wide Technology Raceway in St. Louis. This season, he took home the victory in Arlington, Texas, on their new street circuit. 

Drivers like Kirkwood can go under the radar on street circuits, catching everyone by surprise. These circuits are up for grabs, and anyone can take home the victory. 

The weekend starts on Aug. 14 with a practice session. Throughout the weekend, all sessions will be live on FS1 and FS2. The green flag waives on Sunday, Aug. 16 at 12 p.m. EST. The race will be streamed live on FOX.