“Are You Guys Smoking Chicago Crack?”—Fans Slam NASCAR for Its “Outrageous” Decision in Its First Ever Street Race

The discussions surrounding the Chicago Street Race continue to flood the social media pages of NASCAR fans. Earlier, fans were concerned about the governing body’s risky decision to race oval-track cars on the street. And now, they are upset about NASCAR trying too hard for the ‘F1 money.‘

Back in November 2022, NASCAR unveiled its inaugural packages for the Chicago race experience. Now, the packages are open for booking. However, fans seem quite upset with the entire cost structure laid down by the governing body.

While a General Admission ticket costs of $269, a General Admission Plus ticket is priced at $353. And looking at these prices, fans feel that NASCAR has come up with some outrageous packages. Upset by the ticket prices, many Twitter users slammed the governing body for ignoring a huge section of “casual” fans.

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It’s true that there are a lot of safety as well as monetary concerns about the upcoming street race. But let’s face it, if the Chicago Street Race turns out to be a success, the event is definitely going down as a glorious accomplishment in the history of NASCAR. And owing to this, fans do feel that they should have a fair chance to cheer their favorite drivers in Chicago.

What do NASCAR drivers think about the race?

Just like the fans, NASCAR drivers also have their own set of reservations about the Chicago Street Race. However, all in all, the drivers feel that this could be an extraordinary and unique experience for every NASCAR fan.

Explaining why the race has to be entertaining rather than perfect, 23XI Racing co-owner and Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin told The Athletic,

“It’s probably going to be definitely more about the event than the race … You put us on a street course, more likely we’re gonna have tight confines. It doesn’t need to be a great race, just a spectacle in general.”

WATCH THIS STORY: From The Chicago Street Race to L.A Coliseum: 5 NASCAR Races To Watch Out For in 2023

Apart from him, Team Penske driver Ryan Blaney applauded NASCAR for trying to enter a new market. However, he did admit that NASCAR should work on widening the race circuit before the event. Explaining how the narrow circuit can pile traffic in case of a wreck, Blaney said that the governing body should think about it before the race.