The NASCAR Cup Series was set to make its long‑awaited return to Chicagoland Speedway, marking the first race at the 1.5‑mile oval in seven years.
When the entry list was released, 39 cars were slated to compete, including three open‑team entries that had generated extra buzz.
Among those entries was the No. 66 Garage 66 Ford, piloted by Josh Bilicki and fielded by veteran team owner Carl Long, which was preparing for its eighth start of the 2026 season.
A Sudden Withdrawal
On the eve of the July 4th weekend, the No. 66 team announced that it would not take the green flag, citing an inability to secure the necessary sponsorship to continue.
The decision left the lineup short of its original count, trimming the field to 38 entries and underscoring the financial volatility that still grips some smaller operations.
Team officials expressed disappointment at missing the holiday weekend, but they emphasized that the setback was temporary and that they remain hopeful of returning to competition as soon as a sponsor can be secured.
Bilicki, who was aiming to make his second appearance of the 2026 season, will now look to the next opportunity on the schedule, while the organization behind the No. 66 continues to evaluate its long‑term strategy.
Implications for the Series
The reduction in car count does not dramatically alter the competitive landscape, but it serves as a reminder of the fragile economics that underpin many of the series’ independent entries.
NASCAR, 23XI Racing, NY Racing Team and Garage 66 all remain active participants in the sport, each bringing distinct programs that contribute to the series’ diverse roster of teams.