As NASCAR prepares for its third annual Chicago Street Race this weekend, the future of the event remains unclear with just days before cars take to the streets of Grant Park on July 5-6.
The 2025 race marks the final year of NASCAR's original three-year agreement with the city, and despite ongoing discussions between racing officials and Chicago leaders, no decision has been made about extending the partnership beyond this summer.
NASCAR Chicago Street Race President Julie Giese said the organization is having "good conversations" with city officials but emphasized that planning for this year's event takes priority1. When pressed about 2026 plans at a recent community meeting, Giese told residents, "Right now, our focus is on this year's event. We have those option years. We'll have those conversations"2.
NASCAR COO Steve O'Donnell told the Sports Business Journal in December that the series is "just looking at 2025" as it concludes the three-year run, noting the organization has "learned things each and every year"3.
The uncertainty has fueled speculation about NASCAR's next moves. The Athletic reported in June that NASCAR is nearing an agreement for a street race in San Diego, potentially as early as 20271. O'Donnell acknowledged NASCAR's interest in Southern California markets but declined to confirm specific plans2.
Adding another layer of complexity, Formula 1 officials registered the trademark "Formula 1 Grand Prix of Chicago" last month, suggesting professional racing could continue in the city even if NASCAR departs3.
The Chicago race has generated mixed reactions from residents. While the city estimates the event brought $108.9 million in economic impact in 2023, with 2024 figures still pending, local residents continue voicing concerns about disruptions12.
Paul Wasserman, a 30-year South Loop resident, told CBS Chicago the race creates access problems: "It's really tough on the neighborhood during NASCAR"2. NASCAR has responded by reducing setup time to 25 days this year, down from 43 days in 20233.
Weather has also posed challenges, with rain affecting both previous races and forcing schedule adjustments4.
As NASCAR cars prepare to navigate the 12-turn, 2.2-mile street course through downtown Chicago one more time, the sport's commitment to urban racing hangs in the balance. Giese maintains there's room for multiple street courses on NASCAR's calendar, telling reporters, "I've not ever heard where it has to be one or the other"5.
