NASCAR’s Chicago Street Race Potentially Nears End Amid Economic Success and Future Speculations
NASCAR’s third race on the streets of Chicago, occurring over the weekend, marks the conclusion of a three-year agreement with the city, though a two-year extension option remains available. The series viewed this event as pivotal in reaching new fans who are less inclined to travel to the more distant Chicagoland Speedway.
The race proved economically beneficial for the city, generating an impact of $128 million in 2024, up from $109 million in the inaugural event in 2023. NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps noted that the industry invested $50 million to host the Chicago race, which marked the Cup Series’ first venture onto a street course.
While the Chicago event’s future hangs in the balance, discussions regarding a possible NASCAR street race in San Diego gain momentum. Although no formal agreement is in place for a 2026 event, sources indicate ongoing negotiations, with The Athletic reporting that a deal is being sought.
The proposed San Diego race has ignited speculation regarding its location, with suggestions pointing to the Coronado peninsula—a site potentially offering unique logistics due to its naval base. This move would re-establish NASCAR’s presence in Southern California, previously diminished after the 2023 Auto Club Speedway race and the bus relocation of the Busch Light Clash from Los Angeles.
As the 2026 season approaches, uncertainties abound regarding the schedule, particularly concerning the fate of both the Chicago and San Diego events. Moreover, there is renewed interest in returning to the Chicagoland Speedway, which has been dormant for national series since 2019. Driver Carson Hocevar’s recent visit to the track has sparked further conversation around its revival.
Internationally, the status of NASCAR’s Mexico City race remains uncertain despite a multi-year contract. Speculations suggest a potential date change for future events, as the series continues to explore the possibility of re-entering Canada—a market where engagement has previously flourished.
NASCAR has yet to reveal its full schedule for 2026, but discussions indicate a crowded field of potential venues and an evolving focus toward new racing formats, including the idea of a street oval proposed by driver Denny Hamlin.
With the Daytona 500 on February 15, 2026, and the championship finale scheduled for November 8, significant planning and negotiations are expected in the coming months as NASCAR seeks to clarify its direction through this transformative phase.
