For much of the year, NASCAR officials have maintained optimism that the Chicago Street Race would return after sitting out the 2026 schedule.
Now, one major hurdle appears to be standing in the way.
According to a report from Sports Business Journal, negotiations surrounding a proposed 2027 return have slowed because NASCAR is seeking a substantially larger tourism grant from the state of Illinois than lawmakers have currently approved. The funding gap has left the event’s future uncertain as the series works to finalize its 2027 schedule.
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NASCAR reportedly wants three times the current state allocation
Sports Business Journal reported that NASCAR has requested a $15 million tourism grant through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to help support a return to Grant Park in 2027.
The problem is that Illinois’ current budget includes just $5 million for operating expenses associated with the event, leaving a $10 million gap between what NASCAR is reportedly seeking and what has been appropriated.
As things stand, no agreement has been reached.
The requested funding would represent a significant increase from previous years. The state’s $5 million allocation matched the amount provided for the last Chicago Street Race, but NASCAR is reportedly seeking additional financial support as negotiations continue.
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Until the two sides bridge that gap, the return of one of NASCAR’s most unique events remains in limbo.
Chicago remains NASCAR’s preferred destination
The Chicago Street Race debuted in 2023 and quickly became one of the most distinctive stops on the Cup Series calendar, bringing stock car racing through the streets of downtown Grant Park.
Although the event was removed from the 2026 schedule, NASCAR officials have repeatedly indicated they hoped the absence would be temporary rather than permanent.
Those plans now appear tied to the outcome of ongoing funding discussions.
If an agreement is reached, Chicago could return to the Cup Series schedule in 2027. If not, NASCAR may be forced to explore other options as it continues shaping its calendar.
For now, the city’s future on the NASCAR schedule remains unresolved, with negotiations centered on whether state funding can close the reported $10 million gap.
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