JOLIET, Ill. — NASCAR is poised for a likely return to Chicagoland Speedway in 2026, marking the 1.5-mile oval’s first Cup Series and Xfinity Series races since 2019, according to multiple industry sources and mounting evidence.
While the sanctioning body has not officially confirmed the move, strong indicators suggest a revival is imminent, aligning with NASCAR’s strategic shift after opting not to hold the Chicago Street Race in 2026.
The Athletic’s Jordan Bianchi reported on X on Friday that NASCAR and the city of Chicago will not exercise a mutual option for the 2026 Chicago Street Race, ending a three-year run in Grant Park. The 2.2-mile street course, which debuted in 2023 as NASCAR’s first modern-era street race, generated significant economic impact—$109 million in 2023 and $128 million in 2024—but faced logistical challenges, including extensive road closures and community disruptions. NASCAR remains optimistic about returning to the Chicago street circuit in 2027 with a revised date and streamlined setup to address local concerns, said Chicago Street Race president Julie Giese.
Meanwhile, evidence of Chicagoland Speedway’s return is mounting. Cup Series driver Carson Hocevar recently hinted at the track’s comeback, expressing enthusiasm for racing on the Joliet oval with the Next Gen car, which is expected to deliver competitive racing on intermediate tracks. Fans on X have amplified the speculation, pointing to ticket renewal promotions, a refreshed Chicagoland Speedway website, and job postings for track staff as clear signs of preparation. Sources indicate that the league is ready to invest approximately $4 million in upgrades to the facility, which has been dormant since its last NASCAR event six years ago. These developments, while not an official announcement, strongly suggest Chicagoland will reclaim its spot on the 2026 schedule, maintaining NASCAR’s presence in the Chicago market.
The decision to return to Chicagoland aligns with NASCAR’s broader scheduling strategy. The 2026 season will feature the Daytona 500 on Feb. 15, the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, the All-Star Race likely at North Wilkesboro Speedway, (possibly Charlotte if a points race goes to Wilkesboro) and the championship at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Chicagoland’s 1.5-mile layout, known for its progressive banking and wide racing grooves, is a natural fit for NASCAR’s current car and fan expectations for high-quality oval racing.
In a parallel move, NASCAR is nearing an agreement for a new street race in San Diego, California, potentially replacing the Chicago event and filling the void left by the one-off 2025 Mexico City race, which may not return until 2027. Industry sources indicate the San Diego deal could be finalized this month, bringing premier stock car racing back to the Southern California market for the first time since Auto Club Speedway closed in 2023. A San Diego street course, set against the city’s scenic coastline, promises to attract new fans in a key media market while offering a fresh venue for NASCAR’s growing emphasis on innovative race formats.
The Chicagoland revival and potential San Diego addition reflect NASCAR’s balancing act between tradition and experimentation. Fans on X have expressed excitement over the return to a beloved oval, with many citing Chicagoland’s history of thrilling finishes. As the league finalizes its 2026 schedule, the near-certain return to Joliet—coupled with the pause on Chicago’s street race and the promise of San Diego—signals a dynamic approach to engaging fans and expanding the sport’s footprint. Official confirmation of Chicagoland’s return is expected soon, solidifying its place in NASCAR’s evolving landscape.
The Chicago Street Race, gone too soon?
NASCAR will NOT be holding a Chicago Street Race in 2026.
