NASCAR Halts Chicago Street Race
NASCAR has decided to pause its event in Chicago, responding to one of the main questions about its schedule for next season. Over the last three years, NASCAR held a street race in downtown Chicago during the first weekend of July. However, the contract with the city was for three years, which raised doubts about the event’s continuation. In a letter addressed to Mayor Brandon Johnson, race president Julie Giese explained that the plan is to explore the possibility of a new event weekend in conjunction with the mayor’s office and other community leaders. The aim is also to optimize the construction and dismantling of the circuit.Giese indicated that NASCAR will maintain its Chicago Street Race office and will continue its community collaborations.Our goal is for the Chicago Street Race to return in 2027 with an event that further enhances the experience for both residents and visitors, as we work together for a potential new date, a shorter construction schedule, and additional tourist attractions.
Julie Giese, Race President
NASCAR will replace the stop in Chicago with a street race in San Diego. The Chicago event included Xfinity and Cup Series races on a 12-turn, 2.2-mile circuit, with Lake Michigan and Grant Park as a backdrop, as well as a festive atmosphere with music and entertainment. The goal was to attract both a new audience in one of NASCAR’s most important regions and the most fervent fans. NASCAR used to race at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, 45 miles from downtown, but it retired after the 2019 season. Johnson’s predecessor, Lori Lightfoot, was in charge when the three-year contract for the weekend in the city center was finalized. This decision was not entirely popular in Chicago. Local businesses and residents were frustrated by the street closures in an area with a lot of tourist traffic in the summer. However, the organizers reduced the construction time from 43 days in 2023 to 25 this year, which convinced some of the race’s critics. The drivers and their teams had some concerns about the circuit before the first weekend. However, the configuration was widely praised for the third year, both the circuit and the possibility of walking from their hotel in the center. Hendrick Motorsports driver Kyle Larson called Chicago “probably my favorite NASCAR event every year.” The races in downtown Chicago have been dominated by Shane van Gisbergen, who won the Xfinity and Cup races this year from the pole position. He also won in Chicago in his Cup debut in 2023 and last year’s Xfinity Series race.We deeply value our relationship with the city of Chicago and maintain our firm commitment to being a good neighbor and partner.
Julie Giese, Race President
I love the circuit. It’s a great place to come. You feel a good vibe. You feel a good vibe in the mornings walking towards the circuit with the fans. It’s quite unique like that.
Shane van Gisbergen
