Chicago’s Street Race Roars Back, But Not Before 2027
NASCAR Confirms Hiatus Amidst Talks for Return to City Streets
Chicago’s electrifying NASCAR street race is taking a pause, but the engine is far from cold. The Windy City’s unique urban circuit, which captivated fans and showcased the prowess of drivers like Shane van Gisbergen, will not host a Cup Series event in 2026. This decision follows intense discussions between city officials and NASCAR, signaling a strategic regrouping rather than an outright end to the popular event.
A Bold Experiment Pauses, But Not for Good
The Chicago Street Race, launched with ambitious goals of bringing NASCAR to new urban audiences, has been hailed as a significant success. Its second edition in July 2025 saw **Shane van Gisbergen** replicate his 2023 debut triumph by securing victories in both the Xfinity and Cup Series, starting from pole in each. This remarkable feat mirrored **Kyle Busch**’s 2016 achievement, cementing van Gisbergen’s place in NASCAR lore and Chicago’s racing history.
However, the event’s future beyond 2025 became a key topic for city leaders and NASCAR. While the city advocated for a 2026 return, NASCAR has chosen a one-year hiatus, aiming for a revitalized presence in 2027.
“After this meeting [with NASCAR last night]I am absolutely convinced they want to come back and race in ’27, ’28 and beyond..(But) it’s time to hit the reset button and make sure that the Chicago taxpayers get what they’re entitled to.”
—Alderman Brian Hopkins
Discussions have centered on improving logistical aspects, such as speeding up track setup and breakdown processes, and enhancing the event’s financial viability. NASCAR has pledged to maintain its community engagement throughout 2026 with increased support for local youth and charitable initiatives.
Chicago alderman: “After this meeting [with NASCAR last night]I am absolutely convinced they want to come back and race in ’27, ’28 and beyond..(But) it’s time to hit the reset button and make sure that the Chicago taxpayers get what they’re entitled to.”https://t.co/qsFPmW9aIv
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) July 22, 2025
City officials have estimated the operational costs for the race at approximately $15 million. The return of the race hinges on continued stakeholder support and favorable scheduling, with NASCAR indicating a preference for June, July, or possibly August dates, though August presents logistical challenges.
A significant point of discussion has been the timing of the event, with feedback suggesting that holding the race over the July 4th holiday caused disruption. Both city officials and NASCAR are in agreement that future iterations should avoid this period.
San Diego Gears Up for NASCAR’s Next Urban Adventure
NASCAR’s decision to bypass Chicago in 2026 is part of a broader strategy to explore new urban settings. The sport is shifting its focus to San Diego for 2026, targeting the iconic Coronado Naval Base as a potential venue. This move, reminiscent of the backdrop for “Top Gun: Maverick,” aligns with NASCAR’s aim to blend racing with unique cultural and entertainment experiences, thereby broadening its appeal.
The Chicago Street Race has been a significant economic driver, generating an estimated $128 million for the city in 2024 alone. The 2025 event also saw strong revenue figures, with over 50,000 attendees braving inclement weather, demonstrating the race’s popularity as a festival-like spectacle.
Despite the temporary absence, the enthusiasm for NASCAR’s return to Chicago remains high. The city and the racing organization are actively in discussions for a 2027 revival. As of July 2025, revenue from major sporting events in the US has seen a 7% increase year-over-year, showcasing the continued economic impact of large-scale athletic competitions (Statista, 2025). Chicago’s NASCAR chapter is far from closed; it’s merely awaiting the next green flag.