Chicago played a significant role in NASCAR’s 2025 schedule, despite facing challenges with the weather. The race was scheduled to take place on a 2.2-mile course that included famous streets such as Columbus Drive, Michigan Avenue, and DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Despite having a three-year contract in place, there were questions about whether the disruptions caused by NASCAR events were worth it for both the city and the organization.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his support for the event, highlighting the positive impact on local businesses, especially the hospitality industry. However, the challenges of organizing a race on major city streets were evident, with rain delaying the start of the race and causing interruptions during the event.
Despite the weather challenges, NASCAR remains optimistic about the potential of street races in major metropolitan areas. Four-time Cup champion Jeff Gordon emphasized the importance of showcasing races in urban locations to attract new fans and expand the sport’s reach. While NASCAR’s budget may limit the number of street races, the organization is exploring the possibility of racing in international locations like Mexico and Canada.
The delay in releasing the 2025 schedule raised speculation about potential changes and additions to the lineup, including the movement of tracks out of the playoffs and the addition of new venues. The Chicago race weekend served as a platform to introduce innovative concepts like NASCAR’s electronic vehicle prototype and locally inspired paint schemes, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the city.
As the NASCAR Cup Series moves on to Pocono Raceway, drivers reflect on the unique experiences of racing in different settings, from city streets to mountainous tracks. The contrast between the urban environment of Chicago and the natural landscape of Pocono highlights the diversity of locations in the NASCAR circuit.
Overall, Chicago’s role in NASCAR’s 2025 schedule demonstrated the organization’s commitment to exploring new race venues and engaging with diverse audiences. Despite the challenges faced during the event, NASCAR remains focused on expanding its presence in urban locations and embracing innovative concepts to attract fans and drive growth in the sport.