NASCAR Cancels Chicago Street Race for 2027, Shifts Focus to Chicagoland Speedway

The bustling streets of Grant Park will not witness the return of NASCAR’s high-speed racecars in 2027. NASCAR decided to cancel the Chicago Street Race scheduled for next summer after failing to reach an agreement with the city. However, there remains a possibility of the event’s revival in future years.

NASCAR did confirm that the Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet will host races again next summer. This follows a successful return to the track during the July Fourth weekend, marking the end of a hiatus since 2019. Joliet will host the Cup Series from June 25 to 27, 2027.

An official statement from NASCAR expressed a continued commitment to the Chicagoland area. “While we will not race on Chicago streets in 2027, efforts by NASCAR and our city and state partners continue,” the statement noted. They remain hopeful for a future Chicago Street Race return.

The Chicago Street Race transformed Grant Park into an urban racecourse from 2023 to 2025 before being paused. NASCAR partnered with city officials to reduce disruptions and optimize outcomes for both parties. Recently, the event was held in San Diego at Naval Base Coronado under a one-year agreement.

A $10 million funding shortfall in a state grant proved a significant obstacle. Illinois allocated $5 million for fiscal 2027, short of NASCAR’s $15 million request, impacting the return of the street race. Requests for comments from Chicago’s mayoral office remained unanswered.

NASCAR assured Chicago-area fans that top racing talent will be available near Chicago. According to Jacque Herrera, general manager of Chicagoland Speedway, the overwhelming fan response led to the Cup Series returning to Joliet. “It’s extraordinary to see the track bustling with life and excitement,” Herrera remarked.

The national spectacle of the Chicago Street Race attracted new fans despite challenging weather and criticism from some locals and politicians. In 2024, the race’s influence reached $128 million in economic impact and attracted over 53,000 unique visitors as per a study by Choose Chicago.

While the city had a slight profit, NASCAR operated at a loss during the Chicago Street Race years. Nonetheless, NASCAR plans to keep its downtown office in Chicago operational, a hub opened in 2022, and is committed to continuing community initiatives associated with the race.