NASCAR Shifts Focus to Joliet Amid Chicago Street Race Uncertainty

In 2027, Grant Park in Chicago won’t resonate with the sound of race cars speeding past. NASCAR confirmed it won’t host the Chicago Street Race next summer. Instead, it plans to return to Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, which successfully rejoined NASCAR’s schedule over the recent July Fourth weekend.

NASCAR expressed hopes for a future return to Chicago. Despite collaboration efforts with city and state officials, they couldn’t finalize an agreement for a 2027 return. The organization released a statement affirming their commitment to the Chicagoland region.

The Chicago Street Race previously transformed Grant Park into an urban racing venue during July Fourth weekends from 2023 to 2025. This year saw a hiatus as NASCAR and city officials sought ways to reduce disruptions while optimizing outcomes. Instead, the race was held at San Diego’s Naval Base Coronado under a one-year agreement.

NASCAR aimed to reintroduce the Chicago event in 2027 but hadn’t reached a deal when the following year’s schedule was finalized. Financial obstacles included a $10 million shortfall in a state grant intended to cover costs. The state allocated $5 million in the 2027 budget, while NASCAR sought $15 million.

Chicago race enthusiasts still have opportunities to watch NASCAR’s top drivers compete next summer, albeit removed from downtown Chicago’s streets. NASCAR announced that its Cup Series would return to Joliet after a triumphant showing this summer. Chicagoland Speedway, which last hosted a NASCAR event in 2019, welcomed 50,000 fans from 31 countries and all 50 states during the July Fourth weekend.

The 2027 Cup Series event will take place June 25 to 27 at the 1.5-mile oval in Joliet’s southwest suburbs. “The fan response was overwhelming, so we’re excited to offer another milestone racing weekend in Joliet,” said Jacque Herrera, general manager of Chicagoland Speedway. Herrera noted the personal significance of seeing the track rejuvenate to host NASCAR once more.

Chicago residents felt the impact of not hosting the event. Despite weather and some local resistance, the Chicago Street Race drew attention and new fans, presenting a positive image to millions across the United States over its three-year span. A Choose Chicago study reported a $128 million economic impact and 53,036 unique visitors for the 2024 race. It also generated $43.6 million in media value.

Financially, the event wasn’t a major win for Chicago or NASCAR. The city registered slight profits from NASCAR’s annual $2 million payment, while NASCAR incurred losses each year. Although Chicago remains absent from the schedule for a second consecutive year, NASCAR will keep open its downtown office established in 2022 and continue its community programs related to the race.