NASCAR Pauses Chicago Street Race
NASCAR has decided to pause its street race in Chicago, which answers one of the most important questions about its schedule for next season. Over the last three years, NASCAR held races on a street circuit in downtown Chicago during the first weekend of July. However, the contract with the city was for three years, which raised doubts about the future of the event. In a letter addressed to Mayor Brandon Johnson on Friday, race president Julie Giese reported that plans are underway to explore the possibility of a new weekend of events in conjunction with the mayor’s office and other community leaders, while also working on a more efficient circuit construction and dismantling.Giese also indicated that NASCAR will maintain its Chicago Street Race office and continue its community partnerships.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 towards a new potential date, a shorter construction schedule, and additional tourist attractions.
Julie Giese, President of the Race
NASCAR will replace its stop in Chicago with a street race in San Diego. The NASCAR Chicago street race weekend included Xfinity and Cup Series races on a 2.2-mile, 12-turn circuit, with Lake Michigan and Grant Park as a backdrop, as well as a festive atmosphere with music and entertainment options. The goal was an event that would attract both a new audience in one of NASCAR’s most important regions and the most passionate racing 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 schedule from 43 days in 2023 to 25 this year, winning over some of the race’s critics. The drivers and their teams expressed some concerns about the circuit before the first weekend. However, the configuration was widely praised when the third year arrived, both for the circuit and for the possibility of walking to the circuit from their downtown hotel. Hendrick Motorsports driver Kyle Larson called Chicago “probably my favorite NASCAR event every year.” The race in downtown Chicago has been dominated by Shane van Gisbergen, who won both 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 good neighbors and partners.
Julie Giese, President
I love the circuit. It’s a great place to come. You feel a nice atmosphere. You feel a good vibe in the mornings walking towards the circuit with the fans. It’s quite unique like that.
Shane van Gisbergen
