F1 Rumor: Chicago to Host an F1 Grand Prix

Ever since the sport began back in 1950, Formula 1 has been trying to find its footing in the United States alongside the beloved American Motorsport, NASCAR. However, it wasn’t until recently that the sport has been able to do so. It was helped in part by the race in Austin and the Netflix documentary series, Drive To Survive. Thanks to Netflix, F1 has been able to quickly catch up in popularity in the US. The sport has also been able to add 2 new races in the US; Miami and Las Vegas. However, F1 doesn’t want to stop with just 3 races, there have recently been talks about a race in the city of Chicago.

The rumors recently picked up pace when F1 filed the trademarks for “Chicago Grand Prix“ and “Grand Prix of Chicago“ with the US Patent and Trademark Office. Downtown Alderman Brian Hopkins recently suggested that there have been discussions between the city and F1 about a potential race. However, the negotiations seemed to have halted due to F1’s requirement of a 10-year deal.

Local authorities in Chicago had reservations about the race actually materializing. But now it looks like F1 finally has a realistic choice to host a Grand Prix in Chicago. According to sources, there are big plans to organize an F1 race in the city.

Formula 1 could finally add a 4th race in the United States

NASCAR recently organized its first ever race in Grant Park Chicago, so it was only natural for Formula 1, who is a competitor to NASCAR, to try and get Chicago on the calendar as well. However, F1 could face major troubles in organizing a race in Chicago because F1 tracks are usually longer than typical NASCAR’s oval tracks ranging anywhere between 3 to 4 miles. Readying a track to match the standard of F1 might pose a challenge.

However, F1 remains committed to its goal. According to recent reports, F1 has made significant strides towards getting the approval for the race and is thinking of calling the race either the “North American Grand Prix“ or the “Chicago Festival Grand Prix.” It seems like they won’t be able to use the name “Chicago Grand Prix” because of some legal issues.

They’re looking to have the race either in late April or mid-June. They want to pick a time when the weather is nice and the calendar isn’t too busy, ideally before or after the race in Canada.

READ MORE: F1 Rumors: Chicago Poses Challenge to New York Weeks after Rumors of 4th F1 Race in The U.S.

What are your thoughts on the Chicago GP? If and when F1 finally gets to organize the race, will it get more attention than the race run by NASCAR? Share your thoughts in the comments below.