On Friday, July 18, IndyCar drivers Kyle Kirkwood and Will Power addressed the media following the first practice session at the Indy Toronto race, emphasizing the strong fan turnout and advocating for further IndyCar international expansion. The focus on the impressive crowd reflected growing interest in markets beyond the United States for the American open-wheel series.

Currently, the Indy Toronto event stands as the only international race on the IndyCar schedule, with all other rounds conducted within the U.S. Discussions have reportedly been underway regarding a potential addition of a Mexican Grand Prix as early as 2026, given the interest in expanding the calendar overseas. Additionally, driver Pato O’Ward has indicated Japan and Europe as promising regions for IndyCar to explore in the future.

Will Power praised the vibrant atmosphere at Toronto, remarking on the filled grandstands as the race weekend unfolded. This sharp contrast to recent lower attendances at some U.S.-based races has reinforced calls for diversifying IndyCar’s geographical reach.

Drivers Reflect on International Markets and Fan Reception Opportunities

When asked if the Toronto crowd size signaled readiness for more international events, Will Power expressed confidence in IndyCar’s appeal in regions like Europe and Japan, recalling positive past experiences with global audiences.

“I was going to say, I was sitting there, I looked at the grandstands, they were full. I was really impressed.” —Will Power, IndyCar Driver

“Yeah, absolutely. I think we’d be very well-received in Europe. Japan, we always get a massive crowd. Went to Australia. Yes, could totally do it. Got to make sense financially. But yeah, I think they’d be surprised. When we raced in Europe in Champ Car in ’07… People were very interested in open-wheel cars over there. I think it would be very good markets for us, I believe,” said Will Power.

“I kind of second that, right?” added Kyle Kirkwood, as he went on to explain the sports culture in the US and other countries.

In contrast to the lively scenes in Toronto, recent events such as the races at Iowa have drawn much smaller crowds, with only around 6,000 tickets sold and noticeably empty seating areas. This disparity further underscores the potential benefits of pursuing additional international races where fan enthusiasm remains high.

Will Power Discusses Contract Implications Amid Team Penske Negotiations

Will Power is currently negotiating his future with Team Penske, as his contract expires after the 2025 season. With five races remaining on the 2025 calendar and no new deal finalized, Power acknowledged the significance of each race for his career prospects. He reflected candidly on the challenges faced during a contract year.

“Yeah, man, every race, every session. It just matters, you know? Can you believe the year I’m having, in a contract year? Two engine failures in two race weekends. Just one of those things. Not bad luck. It just happens at times.

“I just know these sort of things come round. It’s very typical of life that a bad year would play out when you’re trying to get a contract,” added Will Power.

Power’s recent move to Fernando Alonso’s management company, A14 Management, and representation by Oriol Servia marks a new chapter in his career as he navigates this crucial negotiation period.

IndyCar’s Future Prospects for Global Expansion

The enthusiastic fan response at the Indy Toronto event, combined with the drivers’ endorsements, presents a strong case for IndyCar to intensify its pursuit of international venues. Expansion into markets like Europe, Japan, Australia, and Mexico could revitalize the series and attract larger, more diverse audiences. While financial viability remains a key consideration, the evident global interest lays a foundation for strategic growth beyond the domestic circuit.

As IndyCar weighs future calendar options, the drivers’ insights and Toronto’s record attendance highlight a pivotal opportunity to transform the sport’s international presence, potentially shaping the championship’s trajectory in the coming years.