The NASCAR Cup Series is set to make its long‑awaited return to Chicagoland Speedway this Sunday, July 5, with the eero 400 kicking off at 6 p.m. Eastern. The 400‑mile event will be televised on TNT and also streamed live on DIRECTV, Sling and Hulu + Live TV, giving fans multiple ways to tune in.
The 1.5‑mile oval, known for its rough and bumpy surface, presents a unique test for the Next Gen cars. Drivers have been vocal about the challenges, with Chase Briscoe calling it a “new learning experience” and Brad Keselowski suggesting the track could actually foster exciting on‑track battles despite its uneven layout.
A New Chapter for the Next Gen Cars
Adding a splash of pop‑culture, Bubba Wallace will pilot a ‘Space Jam’‑themed entry to celebrate the film’s 30th anniversary, while Denny Hamlin, who secured the pole position, notes the distinction between a test weekend and a full‑blown race weekend at the venue.
The weekend also brings storylines of recovery and milestones. Christopher Bell is nursing a wrist injury, wearing a splint rather than a cast, and will be watching closely from the sidelines. Meanwhile, Carson Hocevar is gearing up for his 100th career Cup start, a milestone that underscores his rapid rise in the series.
Alex Bowman, aiming to reverse a disappointing season, hopes to find momentum on the Illinois track, while Austin Dillon likens the character of Chicagoland to historic venues such as Homestead and Darlington, emphasizing its distinct racing DNA.
Brad Keselowski’s optimism that the track’s uneven surface could translate into strategic overtaking opportunities reflects a broader curiosity about how the new car architecture will behave under real‑world conditions. Fans can expect a blend of nostalgia and fresh competition, as the event marks the first NASCAR race at Chicagoland since 2019 and revives a historic Illinois venue that once hosted IndyCar and other series.