NASCAR is not going to return to Chicago Road Course in 2026

The Chicago Road Course race has been a part of the NASCAR Cup schedule since 2023 in a daring transfer to carry road racing to the highest degree of the game. Nevertheless, after three years, the occasion is not going to return in 2026. It is value noting that the door stays open for a potential return in 2027. 

“Thanks for all that you’ve got executed to make the NASCAR Chicago Road Race some of the iconic occasions in world sports activities,” an official assertion from the occasion learn. “Following the success of the primary three years, the Chicago Road Race will hit pause in 2026 to afford us the time essential to work collaboratively with the Metropolis of Chicago to discover a brand new potential date and to develop a plan that additional optimizes operational efficiencies, with a purpose to return to the streets of Chicago in 2027.

“Collectively, we’ve got constructed and grown an expanded group of followers that consists of longtime NASCAR fans and first-time racegoers from across the globe, and for that, we’re immensely grateful.
Thanks to your continued help – and we stay up for seeing you on the races.”

Why was Chicago dropped?

This information comes after studies emerged about NASCAR contemplating a return to Chicagoland Speedway, an intermediate oval positioned simply 50 miles from town. NASCAR can be exploring choices for a brand new road course race, focusing their efforts on San Diego as they try and put a deal collectively.

Shane van Gisbergen burst onto the NASCAR scene through the inaugural working of the Chicago Road Course race, successful on debut in a second that propelled him to a full-time profession within the sport. Alex Bowman gained in 2024, whereas SVG regained his crown in 2025 with one other spectacular victory. He additionally swept the weekend, successful the Xfinity race on Saturday as properly. Scheduled for Fourth of July weekend, the occasion has additionally been marred by rain and inclement climate, however it was well-received by these in attendance.