NASCAR Gears Up for Potentially Final Street Race in Chicago

NASCAR is set to rev up for its third annual street race in Grant Park, but will this be the last lap in Chicago? As the countdown begins, city streets are bracing for the impact of the event scheduled for July 5 and 6.

In the lead-up to the race, several roads will be closed, a familiar sight for residents as NASCAR continues its three-year agreement with the city. However, discussions are reportedly ongoing between NASCAR officials and city leaders about extending the race beyond its current contract, which expires in 2025.

Bleachers are being erected in Grant Park, although fans won’t fill them for another two weeks. The anticipation is palpable, yet some spectators from previous years have expressed mixed feelings about their experience.

Andrew Shusterman, who attended last year’s race, described his view as less than ideal. "You kind of just have to peek through some holes and barely see the turns," he noted, adding that the noise level can be overwhelming.

Despite such critiques, Choose Chicago, the city's tourism agency, has reported significant economic benefits from the event. They estimate that NASCAR generated approximately $236 million for the city during its first two years, even with weather disruptions.

However, a recent report has stirred speculation about NASCAR's future in Chicago. Sources indicate that NASCAR may not extend its contract and is exploring options for a street race in San Diego instead. A spokesperson for San Diego's mayor declined to comment on these developments.

Meanwhile, Mayor Brandon Johnson's office has not provided updates regarding the race's future in Chicago, as city offices were closed for the Juneteenth holiday.

NASCAR representatives have remained tight-lipped about negotiations with San Diego but have not ruled out a potential street race in Chicago for 2026. "This has got to be a top-tier venue for a NASCAR race; like, a huge park in the middle of the city, surrounded by these beautiful buildings," Shusterman remarked.

Even if NASCAR departs, professional street racing may not vanish from Chicago. Recent reports indicate that Formula 1 officials have registered the trademark for the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Chicago, hinting at possible future races.

Formula One's media team has yet to respond to inquiries regarding plans for a Chicago event. For now, NASCAR is focused on this year's race, with preparations intensifying as road closure signs begin to appear throughout downtown.