The NTT IndyCar Series has confirmed the Honda Indy Toronto race will not be replaced, reducing the 2021 season to 16 races, with seven still left to run.
IndyCar had outlined plans to return to the Exhibition Place circuit, following its 2020 absence, but due to Ontario’s ongoing Covid-19 restrictions the race has been abandoned for the second year in succession.
When the Toronto meeting was cancelled mid-May, options had been sought to potentially add on a double-header at another circuit, but IndyCar has abandoned those plans in order to focus on the remaining events.
After the next round at the Mid-Ohio Sportscar course on July 4, IndyCar will take a four-week break; it will then resume at the inaugural Music City Grand Prix on the streets of Nashville on August 8.
“In a decision based on the strength of the remainder of the 2021 schedule, IndyCar will not replace that event on this year’s calendar,” read a statement from officials, referencing Toronto.
“The NTT IndyCar Series looks forward to the remainder of a strong and compelling 2021 calendar. The schedule is set with legendary road and street courses and a daring oval, which have become trademarks to winning the series championship and the Astor Cup.”
“A historic Indianapolis 500, combined with other thrilling and memorable spring events, has highlighted the series’ exciting mix of youth and highly established stars.”
Chip Ganassi Racing’s Alex Palou currently holds a 28-point lead over Arrow McLaren SP’s Pato O’Ward.
Race # | Event | Location | Track Type | Date | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
10 | Honda Indy Toronto | Toronto | Street | 17 July | |
11 | Hy-Vee Deals 250 | Iowa Speedway | Oval | 23 July | |
12 | Hy-Vee 300 | Iowa Speedway | Oval | 24 July | |
13 | Indy Grand Prix | Indianapolis Road Course | Road Course | 30 July | |
14 | Big Machine Music City Grand Prix | Nashville | Street | 7 August | |
15 | Bommarito Auto Group 500 | Gateway | Oval | 20 August | |
16 | Grand Prix of Portland | Portland | Road Course | 4 September | |
17 | Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey | Laguna Seca | Road Course | 11 September |