As the 2025 NASCAR season marks the final year of the current contract to host the Chicago Street Race, questions are emerging about what the future holds for the sport in the region. The street course, introduced in 2023, brought excitement and novelty to downtown Chicago, but it hasn’t been without its share of obstacles. Weather delays, logistical headaches, and mixed public reception have cast some doubt on whether this format should continue beyond the existing agreement. While the race showcased NASCAR’s ability to adapt and modernize, the practical challenges of closing major city roads and organizing large-scale events in the heart of downtown have raised concerns among both city officials and residents.
This situation has reignited discussion about returning to a more traditional venue—Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet. The track, once a regular stop on the NASCAR circuit from 2001 to 2019, has sat idle in recent years after being removed from the schedule during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many in the NASCAR community, including prominent drivers like Denny Hamlin and Ryan Blaney, have voiced strong support for a comeback. They argue that the 1.5-mile oval is well-suited for the current Next Gen cars and offers a racing experience that fans can appreciate more than the unpredictable nature of street courses.
A return to Chicagoland in 2026 could provide a more stable, fan-friendly option for NASCAR in the Midwest. While the street course brought buzz and a new audience, many believe the time has come to revisit the proven success of the Joliet track and reestablish it as a staple on the calendar.
