NASCAR is “making progress toward bringing back a race in downtown Chicago” for its Cup Series, according to sources cited by THE ATHLETIC. There is “no finalized deal between the league and the city yet.” But the sources said that there is “growing optimism that the Chicago Street Course will be included in NASCAR’s 2027 schedule.” NASCAR staged a race on a temporary course around Grant Park from 2023-2025. In the lead-up to last year’s race, NASCAR and Chicago leaders “sought to continue the relationship after a 2026 pause.” One of the key discussion points “centered around finding a more advantageous date.” Sources noted that “hurdles remain to finalizing a deal,” and such negotiations “are always fluid.” Still, NASCAR’s goal of racing again in downtown Chicago is “now closer to reality than ever” (THE ATHLETIC, 5/13).
Report: NASCAR nearing return to downtown Chicago in 2027
