NASCAR will not bring back the Chicago Street Race to Grant Park in 2027. The organization was unable to finalize a deal with the city in time. However, NASCAR aims to reintroduce the race in the future. This year, NASCAR confirmed the return of Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet to the summer schedule. The southwest suburban track had a successful reopening over the July Fourth weekend.
NASCAR had hoped for both the Chicago and Joliet races in 2027. Despite efforts from NASCAR, city, and state officials, racing will not reach the streets of Chicago that year. NASCAR expressed a continuing commitment to the Chicagoland region and openness to future opportunities.
From 2023 to 2025, the Chicago Street Race transformed Grant Park into an urban racecourse over the July Fourth weekend. The event was put on hold in 2026 while exploring ways to reduce disruption and enhance results. In its place, the street race was held at San Diego’s Naval Base Coronado in June, under a one-year agreement.
Efforts to renew the race for 2027 faced limitations, including a $10 million shortfall in state grant funding. The state allocated $5 million for the fiscal year 2027, while NASCAR sought a $15 million grant. A spokesperson for the mayor did not comment.
NASCAR’s commitment is evident through the return of its Cup Series to Joliet next summer. Fans will see top drivers competing at Chicagoland Speedway again. The track had not hosted a NASCAR event since 2019 until its recent comeback, drawing 50,000 fans from various countries and states. The 1.5-mile speedway will host events from June 25 to 27 in 2027.
Jacque Herrera, General Manager of Chicagoland Speedway, emphasized the positive fan response. The significant turnout encouraged NASCAR to schedule another milestone racing weekend in Joliet.
While Joliet’s gain may seem like Chicago’s loss, NASCAR continues its investment. The Chicago Street Race drew immense attention despite weather challenges and opposition. Over its three-year run, the race brought in new fans and portrayed the city positively to millions of viewers. The 2024 race impacted the economy by $128 million and attracted more than 53,000 visitors. It also generated $43.6 million in media value for the city.
The economic impact did not translate to direct financial gains for either party, though. The city earned a slight profit from an annual $2 million payment from NASCAR, which incurred losses throughout the Chicago race period. Despite not being on the 2027 schedule, NASCAR maintains its downtown Chicago office opened in 2022 and continues local community programs linked to the event.
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