NASCAR Revives Chicagoland Speedway with 2026 eero 400
The NASCAR Cup Series will head back to Chicagoland Speedway this summer, reviving a venue that hasn't hosted a Cup race since 2019. The event, branded as the eero 400, is slated for July 2026 and will feature a 39‑driver field, of which 36 entries are locked in via guaranteed charters.
The return marks a significant moment for the sport, as the track in Joliet, Illinois, prepares to welcome fans after a seven‑year absence. Series officials say the weekend will blend traditional racing pageantry with the modern digital backdrop that eero brings as a technology partner.
Among the drivers, Austin Hill is set to take over the iconic No. 33 car previously piloted by Kyle Busch, joining Richard Childress Racing for the upcoming season. Hill will inherit a seat that has been a fixture in NASCAR’s lineup for decades, and his move has sparked discussion among analysts about the team’s strategic direction.
The entry list also includes a mix of full‑time competitors and open entries, with notable names such as J.J. Yeley, Josh Bilicki and Corey Heim slated to appear on the roster. Their participation underscores the diverse talent pool that NASCAR continues to cultivate.
For Richard Childress Racing, the swap represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The team, led by veteran owner Richard Childress, will look to maintain its competitive edge while integrating Hill into a lineup that has historically been anchored by Busch’s aggressive style.
Beyond the on‑track action, the event will be supported by a suite of sponsor activations, most prominently from eero, whose Wi‑Fi solutions will be woven into the fan experience. The partnership reflects a broader trend of tech companies aligning with motorsport to reach younger audiences.
With 36 guaranteed charters securing spots for the race, the 2026 eero 400 promises a full grid and a competitive field, setting the stage for a potentially thrilling showdown on the 1.5‑mile oval. Fans can expect a weekend filled with on‑track battles, off‑track entertainment, and a celebration of NASCAR’s enduring appeal.