NASCAR Reportedly in Talks to Race on Street Tracks Starting With Chicago

According to some reports, there is a chance of a NASCAR street circuit race on the horizon. As per Sports Business Journal, the organization is currently locked in discussions with the city of Chicago for this. If all goes well, then such a race could kick-off as early as the 2023 Cup Series season. Aside from the NASCAR body, Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Sports Commission Exec Dir Kara Bachman are involved.

However, it is worth noting that these talks are not as simple as can be, and there are many complications. In the worst-case scenario, talks could potentially break down or postpone things until 2024. A point in NASCAR’s favor is its history in the city of Chicago, courtesy of the Chicagoland Superspeedway. This speedway has hosted races from 2002 until 2019, but has not hosted a race since then.

Why is NASCAR pursuing this avenue?

In all honesty, NASCAR wishes to compete in more urban areas. Owing to this, a street race is right up this alley, especially since most speedways are located in rural areas or suburbs. Interestingly, the recently concluded Clash at the LA Coliseum was pretty much a guinea pig for such a plan. Considering the relatively positive reception at the L.A. Coliseum, it could spearhead the street race plan.

Admittedly, NASCAR is lagging behind on the street race front, compared to its motorsport rivals. Formula 1 has raced on these tracks for years, and recently IndyCar joined the bandwagon. Of course, such projects are not easy, from a logistical and financial standpoint. On the bright side, many in NASCAR have expressed a bit of interest, prompting the sanctioning body to take action. One of the clearest indications of interest was when NASCAR hosted an iRacing event through the virtual streets of Chicago. Now the real question is, will the talks bear fruit or will there be issues?

READ MORE: WATCH: NASCAR Drivers Pay Tribute to the Fans as Auto Club Speedway Sees Packed Grandstands