NASCAR Eyes Chicagoland Speedway Return Amid Schedule Shake-Up
Joliet track removal from schedule sparks fan demand for comeback
NASCAR is actively considering a return to Chicagoland Speedway for the upcoming racing season, with sources indicating a strong possibility of the move materializing. Once criticized for its standard 1.5-mile oval layout that often delivered predictable racing, the Joliet, Illinois venue was notably absent from the NASCAR schedule starting in 2021. However, a resurgence in enthusiasm for 1.5-mile tracks, attributed to the performance of the seventh-generation race car introduced in 2022, has fueled a significant uptick in fan requests for the track’s reinstatement.
Chicago Street Race Future Uncertain
The sport initially shifted its Illinois presence to the Road America road course in Wisconsin in 2021, later transitioning that event to the Chicago street race from 2023 through the current year. While NASCAR continues discussions with the city of Chicago regarding the street race’s future, the property’s official decision on reinstating Chicagoland for next year remains unconfirmed. NASCAR has declined to comment on the matter.
Chicago’s mayor has expressed openness to continuing the street race, potentially with a revised date and renegotiated terms. Should an agreement for an extension not be reached, Chicagoland Speedway is positioned as a prime candidate to host the stock car series. Over the past year, NASCAR has conducted internal preparations for a potential return, including site visits to assess necessary renovations and cleanup costs, according to industry insiders.
Chicagoland’s Track Record and Potential Costs
The investment required to bring Chicagoland Speedway back to modern standards after years of limited use is still being determined. However, permanent racing facilities of its scale often necessitate substantial capital expenditures, potentially in the seven or eight-figure range, to meet contemporary fan expectations. Located approximately an hour from downtown Chicago, the track, a former ISC venue, began hosting NASCAR and IndyCar races in 2001. It most recently hosted a SuperMotocross event in September 2023.
San Diego and International Markets on the Horizon
While the 2026 schedule remains undisclosed, it is expected to feature continued innovation and surprise elements. Among potential additions is a race in the San Diego area, which would mark NASCAR’s re-entry into the Southern California market. Following a report last month that identified potential locations, industry speculation points to the nearby city of Coronado as a likely site for a street race. Coronado’s significant naval presence could align well with NASCAR’s patriotic themes.
NASCAR is also evaluating its return to Mexico City following this year’s Cup Series race. Furthermore, discussions about a Canadian race in the coming years are ongoing. NASCAR’s Executive Vice President and Chief Venue and Racing Officer, **Ben Kennedy**, revealed that the organization has already developed a preliminary internal schedule for 2031, suggesting a strategic, long-term planning approach.
The dynamic nature of NASCAR’s scheduling reflects a broader trend in motorsports. For instance, Formula 1’s return to Las Vegas in 2023, after a 30-year hiatus, generated significant buzz and economic impact, showcasing the appeal of bringing major racing events back to iconic or renewed locations. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported substantial economic benefits from the event.
