NASCAR in Chicago: Uncertain Future, Focused Present
Chicago prepares to once again welcome the excitement of NASCAR to its street circuit, but the future of this competition in the city is uncertain. Julie Giese, president of the circuit, faces a busy schedule, overseeing the construction of the street circuit and managing all aspects of the event. The three-year contract between NASCAR and the city, announced in 2022, includes mutual options that will determine the fate of the Chicago race.Jason Lee, an advisor to Mayor Brandon Johnson, highlighted NASCAR’s involvement in the community and the improvements made to the event. Parallel discussions are underway between the organization and the city to define the future of this partnership. A possible modification that could interest the city is the change of date of the event, something that has been discussed with NASCAR in the past.At this time, the focus is on executing a large event in 2025. We will continue conversations with the city.
Julie Giese
It might be more sensible to move the event to a different weekend, where we don’t have so many demands on our law enforcement officers and other emergency personnel.
Jason Lee
Meanwhile, NASCAR is rumored to be close to a deal to bring a street race to the San Diego area next year, with a possible announcement in July. Giese has stated that his focus is on Chicago, although he believes there is room for multiple street circuits on the NASCAR schedule.
The Chicago race, which takes place on a 2.2-mile circuit with 12 turns, offers a weekend full of activities, including music and entertainment, attracting both new fans and the most passionate racing enthusiasts. The event has undergone significant improvements, such as the reduction of construction time and adjustments in the display areas. In addition, entry is free for children under 12 years old. The event has received industry praise.The weather has been a significant factor in previous editions, with heavy rains affecting the races. Despite this, the competition on the track has been exciting. Shane van Gisbergen achieved a historic victory in 2023, and Alex Bowman took the victory last year. Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing driver, highlighted the positive aspects of the Chicago race.It’s fun to see and hear from people in the industry who come early, and they’re just going to enjoy the city for a few days.
Julie Giese
The race could change in the future, but it remains in the mold in which he would like to see any street race that they continue to implement.The track has been good, there have been races and overtaking zones, and the scenery is fantastic in terms of the backdrop in which we run. There are many positives for the Chicago street race.
Denny Hamlin
