More Chicago Street Race Questions Arise

May 25, 2023
9:55 am

Let us know what you think

Join the conversation on socials

Joshua Lipowski

All Posts

Adam Stern reports that NASCAR is still communicating with the new mayoral administration in Chicago about the future of the Chicago Street Race beyond this summer.

What’s Happening?

NASCAR is holding its first street race this July in Chicago, but the election of new mayor Brandon Johnson makes some wonder how long the event could stay. Adam Stern reported a quote from Julie Giese from NBC Chicago, where she affirmed NASCAR’s commitment to the city and assured that they have talked with the new mayor.

.@NASCARChicago president Julie Giese on the city having a new mayor: "Our commitment hasn’t changed. We are committed to this city and to being a good community partner. We have had conversations, multiple conversations with the new administration." https://t.co/Kh6E3wEoMW
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) May 25, 2023

The City of Chicago recently announced the road closures being implemented to allow for the set-up and tear down of the track. They announced road closures set to begin on June 10th with gradual increase until what they call the “Most significant” road closures begin on June 25th. From there, roads will begin reopening the day after the race, will tear-down set to conclude by July 15th.
This will be the first street race in NASCAR history, but not the first race in the Chicagoland area. In the 1950s, Cup Series races were held at Willow Springs and Soldier Field, but the top-flight did not return until 2001. Chicagoland Speedway hosted 19 races between 2001 and 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic teed off the eventual closure of the track.
Fans are generally skeptical on whether or not the Chicago Street Race can be any more than a one-and-done. There is excitement for the race, but there is also skepticism.

The Main Characters

Repaving has already begun in preparation for the Chicago Street Race.

The Milhouse #ConstructionManagement team has started working on road resurfacing ahead of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend that is taking place in July! Our team is working on curb and gutter removal and placement, street pavement milling, and street pavement paving. pic.twitter.com/rx6iQ38F0R
— Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc. (@milhouseinc) May 17, 2023

Around the Garage

Kurt Busch, a Chicago Cubs fan, recently made some media appearances in Chicago to promote the race. This one is from the local sports show: Football Night in Chicago

Busch also stopped by Wrigley Field to cheer on the Cubs.

Kurt Busch makes a pit stop at Wrigley, promoting Chicago Street Race ⁦@NASCARChicago⁩ pic.twitter.com/JASp4vGMEP
— Mark Gonzales (@MDGonzales) March 30, 2023

He also made a stop at a late-season Chicago Blackhawks game.

HEAR @KurtBusch with @NHLBlackhawks @WGNRadio broadcast sharing #Chicago roots and @NASCARChicago Street Race! https://t.co/JozT0eDJU1
— Dane L. Neal (@Danetanamo) April 15, 2023

He also paid a visit to the Chicago Bulls as well.

Kurt Busch Takes in Chicago Ahead of Upcoming Street Course Race. @KurtBusch / @23XIRacing / #NASCAR https://t.co/OukLFHmY7d
— Racing America (@RacingAmerica) April 2, 2023

In the Stands

We will see this summer whether or not the locals will be excited about the race.

This seems like the type of race that is indeed a risk, but, at the same time, it’s also an event with massive upside. What happens in July will determine what NASCAR does going forward.