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Chicago Street Race Talks Continue as Contract Extension Remains Unresolved

Constructive discussions between city officials and NASCAR have laid groundwork for a potential extension following aldermen’s formal request to debrief the event’s impact.

Cars race in the Xfinity Series during the first day of the NASCAR Street Race on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at Grant Park in Chicago (Vincent Alban/Chicago Tribune)
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Overview

  • The 2025 Chicago Street Race opens July 5–6 as the third year of the original three-year deal, with two one-year extension options still undecided
  • NASCAR track president Julie Giese says the priority is delivering a standout 2025 event while maintaining open conversations on future renewals
  • Jason Lee, senior adviser to Mayor Brandon Johnson, indicated the city may consider shifting the race weekend to ease pressure on law-enforcement and emergency services
  • Aldermen led by Brian Hopkins have formally asked for a post-race meeting to evaluate the event’s economic returns, park-district revenue and community effects
  • Organizers have cut setup from 43 days in 2023 to 25 days in 2025, introduced free admission for children 12 and under and are monitoring reports that NASCAR is nearing a San Diego street-race agreement