After three years, the NASCAR Chicago Street Race will “hit pause” next year, NASCAR confirmed to WBBM Newsradio Friday.
“Following a successful three years, the NASCAR Chicago Street Race will hit pause in 2026 to allow NASCAR to be responsive to residents’ and elected officials’ feedback,” said a statement from the auto racing association. “We will continue to work together toward a new potential date and develop a plan to further optimize operational efficiencies with the goal of the event’s return in 2027.”
NASCAR’s race in Chicago wound through the city’s Grant Park around the Independence Day holiday. Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot struck the three-year agreement for the race and current Mayor Brandon Johnson might want to move it from July 4 weekend.
“It’s disappointing that negotiators haven’t been able to move this event off the July 4 weekend – especially given how NASCAR has provided Chicago the opportunity to shine on the world stage,” said a statement from 34th Ward Ald. Bill Conway.
He also noted that NASCAR has “made meaningful efforts to reduce disruptions for residents and businesses along the race route, streamline setup and takedown, and maintain open lines of communication with our community,” and said that he is hoping for a return of the event.
“We’re gonna have to find the sweet spot,” 2nd Ward Ald. Bill Hopkins told WBBM. “Gonna be a challenge to find a date that works for both Chicago and works for NASCAR, but we have a year to do that so let’s give it a shot.”