Today, the NASCAR Chicago Street Race announced that Hockey Hall of Famer Chris Chelios and Chicago Bears fan favorite Matt Forte will serve as the Grand Marshals for this weekend’s NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend, July 6-7 in Grant Park.

“Chicago is one of the best sports towns in the world, and NASCAR is proud to be a part of that historic Chicago sports culture,” said Julie Giese, Chicago Street Race President. “Chris and Matt are two of the most recognizable sports icons in the city, and we’re excited to welcome their winning spirit to this weekend’s races.”

In accordance with NASCAR tradition, Hockey Hall of Famer, Chicago Blackhawks Legend, and Chicago-native Chris Chelios will deliver Saturday’s “drivers, start your engines” call prior to the NASCAR Xfinity Series Race, The Loop 110, with Forte set to deliver the famous command in advance of Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series’ Grant Park 165.

One of the longest tenured players in NHL history, Chelios will represent his hometown of Chicago at this year’s Grant Park 165. The hockey legend played for the Blackhawks from 1990-1999, and went on to win three Stanley Cup Championships throughout the course of his career.

Fan favorite Matt Forte spent eight years as a Chicago Bear. Named by the team as “one of the Top 100 greatest Bears of all-time,” he is one of only three players to record at least 1,000 rushing yards and 100 receptions in a single season.

— NASCAR —