Overview

• Mayor Johnson has signaled that Chicago will consider extending the three-year street race deal if NASCAR proposes an “optimal time” outside the Fourth of July window within its 90-day extension option.
• City and Park District leaders are negotiating new dates while demanding broader stakeholder input and tougher contract terms for the 2026–27 races.
• NASCAR’s current permit requires a $605,000 base fee, $2 per ticket sold, 25% of net concession commissions and a $2 million public-safety payment, with ongoing commitments to shorten setup and teardown periods.
• NASCAR is in parallel talks with San Diego officials about launching a 2026 street race there that could supplement or replace Chicago’s event.
• Officials must balance the event’s economic impacts—$108.9 million in 2023 and $128 million in 2024—against concerns over law-enforcement burdens and extended park closures.