• Chicago Street Race generated US$236m in economic impact across first two years
  • Nascar rumoured to be evaluating return to Chicagoland for next season

Nascar has announced that the Chicago Street Race will not return to the Cup Series schedule next year, but a return in 2027 is being worked on.

A disagreement between the city of Chicago and Nascar over when the race should be held has ultimately led to the event being paused for one year. The city of Chicago wanted the event moved away from the Independence Day Weekend celebrations, something which could not be accommodated as early as next season.

‘As we reflect on three successful years in Chicago, it is a priority for us to continue to be responsive to the feedback we’ve heard from residents, downtown stakeholders, and your administration,’ read a statement from Julie Giese, president of the Nascar Chicago Street Race, to Brandon Johnson, mayor of Chicago.

‘With that, we’ve made the decision to pause the Chicago Street Race in 2026 to afford us the time necessary to work collaboratively with your office and other community leaders to explore a new potential race date and to develop a plan that further optimises operational efficiencies on the course build and breakdown while continuing our presence in the local community.

‘Our goal is for the Chicago Street Race to return in 2027 with an event that further enhances the experience for residents and visitors alike, as we work together towards a new potential date, shorter build schedule, and additional tourism draws.’

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According to the letter, the Chicago Street Race generated US$236 million in economic impact across its first two years, while the NBC broadcasts from those seasons resulted in an estimated international media value of US$67 million for Chicago.

While this spells the end for Nascar’s first ever street race – for now – the Cup Series may not be absent from Illinois next season.

According to Sports Business Journal (SBJ), Nascar is evaluating a return to Chicagoland Speedway. The 1.5-mile oval was removed from the schedule in 2021 after debuting in 2001, largely due to concerns over the track producing predictable racing. However, the latest generation of Cup Series cars has delivered improved racing on intermediate tracks, sparking renewed interest in bringing Chicagoland back.