NASCAR Cancels 2026 Chicago Street Race, Eyes 2027 Comeback

The streets of downtown Chicago will not echo with the roar of NASCAR engines in 2026. After three years of transforming city roads into a competitive race venue, NASCAR has announced it will pause the Chicago Street Race next year. This decision ends the original contract period and defers the next race to a potential return in 2027. The league emphasized its commitment to working with the city on refining logistics, shortening the setup timeline, and enhancing visitor experience. Although the July 4th weekend slot will remain open, discussions are ongoing for future scheduling. The decision underscores NASCAR’s evolving approach to urban racing, with sights set on a stronger, more community-aligned event in the near future.

Launched in 2023, the NASCAR Chicago Street Race marked a bold shift from traditional track racing. Designed as a three-year experiment, the event reimagined how stock car racing could integrate with major metropolitan areas. Initially met with skepticism from city leaders and racing insiders alike, the course quickly gained traction. Drivers adjusted to the tight turns and unpredictable layout, and fans embraced the novelty of racing through the heart of downtown. Despite logistical concerns and mixed weather conditions, the event proved that NASCAR could stage a competitive race in a major media market.

Though the city and NASCAR held a mutual option for 2026, both sides agreed to pause the race. According to a public letter from Julie Giese, President of the Chicago Street Race, the decision allows time to reassess the event’s timing and execution. She cited the need to improve the setup and breakdown process and better align the race with local interests. Feedback suggested moving the race from its July 4th weekend slot to reduce disruption. NASCAR remains committed to returning in 2027 with a more efficient and community-friendly format.

When first announced in 2022, the Chicago Street Race drew criticism from local officials and some within the racing world. Concerns centered around the financial cost, traffic disruptions, and feasibility of running stock cars on public roads. However, the event steadily gained local support. Mayor Brandon Johnson described it as a growing tradition, and drivers praised the unique challenge. The shortened 2023 and 2024 races—due to rain—did little to dampen enthusiasm. In 2025, for the first time, the full race distance was completed, solidifying its potential as a staple in the NASCAR calendar.

While Chicago steps back in 2026, NASCAR is exploring alternatives. Reports suggest a new temporary road race in the San Diego area could fill the schedule gap. Details are expected soon. Meanwhile, there is speculation that the NASCAR-owned Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet may return. The venue previously hosted Cup Series races until 2019 and could serve as a temporary Chicago-area replacement. NASCAR has not ruled out maintaining a presence in the region, keeping the door open for fans eager for a local event.

The 2026 pause does not mark the end of NASCAR's ambitions in Chicago. Instead, it represents a recalibration aimed at creating a more refined, less disruptive event. NASCAR officials are working with city leadership to streamline operations, shorten setup times, and possibly shift the race to a more suitable date. By taking time to align logistics with local priorities, NASCAR hopes to return in 2027 with an event that delivers both fan excitement and civic benefits. As the sport explores new venues and formats, Chicago remains a key market in its future planning.