Chicago could say goodbye to NASCAR's Loop takeover
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A driver in the NASCAR Chicago Street Race on Sunday. Photo: Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu via Getty Images
The NASCAR Chicago Street Race brought high-octane energy to another Fourth of July weekend, but some city officials say it's time to let the unique event fade into the sunset.
The latest: Ald. Brian Hopkins, Ald. Bill Conway (34th) and other city officials are questioning whether the trouble of closing streets and shifting Chicago city traditions is worth it now that the three-year contract is up.
- The city race course runs in the Loop, from Michigan Avenue to DuSable Lake Shore Drive.
What they're saying: "July Fourth is a very family-friendly weekend and we want families to be able to use the park on July Fourth," Conway told NBC Chicago."Not only do we have to make sure that we are making this as convenient as possible for the constituents, but also make sure the city is recouping its cost of putting on the race."
- "NASCAR has brought Chicago business, tourists and a spectacle unique to sports culture," Hopkins said in a statement."They have also brought noise, disruption, and road closures, some of which will continue from this year's event for many days to come.
Reports have surfaced that NASCAR is considering San Diego as the next city for the race.
By the numbers: While it will be months until the city releases economic figures from this past weekend, 2024 generated $128 million in economic impact, according to Choose Chicago and the Chicago Sports Commission.
- The 2024 race attracted just over 53,000 spectators.
- In recent years, the city says it spent an estimated $3.5 million on road work, staffing and police.
- This year, the state kicked in $5 million out of its general operating fund to help offset the city's expenses.
- NASCAR paid the Chicago Park District $2 million for the race.
Catch up quick: NASCAR replaced the popular Taste of Chicago, which brought the city together downtown for the traditional food festival, complete with free admission and concerts.
- The Taste was moved to September.
Reality check: The race not only replaced Taste, but charged big ticket prices to attend, which kept many Chicagoans from enjoying Grant Park over the Fourth of July weekend.
- It also closed roads around the Loop leading up to the race and upended the famous 16-inch softball leagues in Grant Park.
Context: The race began in 2023 under the Lightfoot administration, which cited a need to bring excitement and foot traffic back to the Loop.
- Mayor Brandon Johnson has publicly bit his tongue on the NASCAR deal and has been mum on whether he's considering a new contract to bring it back.
The vibe: While the street race is undoubtedly a fun departure for the sport, it has been hamstrung all three years by inclement weather, which has delayed races, canceled concerts and put a damper on crowds attending.
Zoom out: Then there is the appeal of the sport. Chicago is a big city with many tastes, but the NASCAR street race didn't reach typical Chicagoans, instead drawing from the suburbs and nearby states.
- NASCAR usually visits the area at the Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet.
What's next: NASCAR and the city have 90 days to work out dates for the next year.
🗳️ What do you think? Would you welcome the NASCAR Street Race back to Chicago next year or is it time for the race to feature ocean views?