
NASCAR’s Chicago Return Hinges on Funding Amid IMSA Interest
Speculation about NASCAR’s potential return to Grant Park in 2027 is tempered by financial hurdles and ongoing schedule discussions, even as IMSA signals willingness to collaborate.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Chicagoland Speedway, Joliet, Illinois, USA across Nascar.

Speculation about NASCAR’s potential return to Grant Park in 2027 is tempered by financial hurdles and ongoing schedule discussions, even as IMSA signals willingness to collaborate.

After a weather‑induced delay, Brandon Jones overtook Chase Elliott in overtime to claim his maiden victory of the 2026 season at Chicagoland Speedway.

NASCAR returned to Chicagoland Speedway for the first time since 2019, with Riley Herbst topping the speed charts and Tyler Reddick leading lap averages in a practice session that highlighted new tire behavior and hopes for a wider racing groove.

After a four‑year absence, the NASCAR Cup Series is set to race again at Chicagoland Speedway. Dale Earnhardt Jr. suggests the series may not limit itself to a single event, and discussions are underway for the Chicago Street Course to return in 2027.

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series returns to Illinois this weekend, where Denny Hamlin opens as the +320 favorite ahead of a competitive field that includes Tyler Reddick, Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, Ryan Blaney and several longshot drivers.