The NASCAR Cup Series will roll into Chicagoland Speedway on July 5, bringing a 267‑lap, 400.5‑mile showdown to the 1.5‑mile oval in Joliet, Illinois.
Pole position and rivalries
Denny Hamlin, the current points leader, will start from the pole, while Kyle Larson will line up on the outside of the front row, setting the stage for a competitive battle early in the race.
Hamlin’s strong season performance has placed him at the top of the championship standings, and his qualifying lap secured the coveted front‑row start. Larson’s positioning on the outer side of the front row adds another layer of excitement, as both drivers are expected to contend for the early lead.
Track specifics and race structure
Chicagoland Speedway, a 1.5‑mile concrete oval, will test drivers with its unique blend of high‑speed corners and long straightaways. The event will consist of 267 laps divided into three stages — 80 laps, 85 laps and 102 laps — offering multiple opportunities for stage points and strategic pit stops.
The race, branded as the eero 400, will be televised nationally on TNT and streamed live on HBO Max, giving viewers a choice between traditional broadcast and on‑demand platforms. HBO Max will provide a full feed along with in‑car camera angles, while audio coverage will be available through NASCAR.com and SiriusXM on channel 90.
Fans attending the event can expect a full weekend of activities, including practice sessions, qualifying runs and a vibrant fan zone, all set against the backdrop of Illinois’ summer weather.