Province backs IndyCar's Ontario Honda Dealers Indy in Markham with $1.5M

What’s happening

• The province is providing $1.5 million to support the 2026 Ontario Honda Dealers Indy in Markham.
• The race is scheduled for August 14–16, 2026 and is the only Canadian stop on the NTT INDYCAR SERIES calendar.

By the numbers (from the release)

• Expected attendance: more than 150,000 over the three-day weekend.
• The release says the event generates “tens of millions” in economic activity.
• For context, the event’s 2025 stop generated more than $85 million and welcomed over 160,000 visitors.

Why it matters

• Funding is intended to support event operations, enhance the fan experience, attract international visitors, and boost local tourism, hospitality and jobs.
• The announcement is presented alongside other provincial sport investments and programs (for example, the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund and the Ontario Sport Hosting Program) meant to help communities host major events.

Who is quoted

• The release quotes provincial and event officials saying the investment helps deliver a world-class motorsport event and supports local businesses and tourism.