CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Chicago’s first ever NASCAR race is still a few weeks away, but Navy Pier is getting in the spirit a little early.
The drivers will hit the streets of Chicago July 2 for the Grant Park 220 and to prepare, they are using iRacing simulators to drive the course.
Next week, fans can use that same technology and drive the same virtual course inside of Navy Pier. Tuesday marks NASCAR night at the AON Grand Ballroom from 5:00-9:30 p.m.
Organizers said the free event will also include live music, chances to take photos with the Grant Park 220 and the The Loop 121 trophies and a chance to buy Chicago street race merch as well.
More importantly, It will give visitors a chance to experience what NASCAR's first ever street race will be like from the driver's vantage point.
“When we think about the growth of our sport among new and more diverse communities, gaming and esports are really at the heart of NASCAR’s future,” said Ray Smith, Director of Gaming and Esports at NASCAR.
“We already have full-time NASCAR drivers like Rajah Caruth who got their start in eNASCAR, so our hope is that the next great NASCAR champion will be here in the room at Navy Pier.”
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