The Chicago Street Race has swiftly developed into a standout event in the NASCAR calendar since making its debut in 2023. Drawing large, enthusiastic crowds and featuring an electric atmosphere, the race has become known for its thrilling unpredictability, partly shaped by challenging weather conditions. Though discussions are ongoing about possibly replacing the Chicago event with a street course in San Diego, Michael McDowell has expressed strong support for NASCAR’s efforts in Chicago.
Michael McDowell Acknowledges Overcoming Difficult Obstacles
During media sessions ahead of the race, McDowell applauded the event’s success despite facing significant hurdles. He emphasized that the obstacles, especially weather disruptions, had not overshadowed the overall achievement.
I think it’s been a huge success, especially with some of the adversity that everyone has had to overcome,
McDowell said.
Whether it be weather, and you guys remember that first year on the Saturday, the amount of people that were coming in here for the concert was insanity, and it was going to be a giant success, and then obviously the weather and thunderstorms. I think it’s had to go through a lot of adversity.
—Michael McDowell, NASCAR Driver
Appreciating the Unique Elements of the Event
McDowell commended the race’s combination of a challenging track layout, the vibrant city backdrop, and the electric fan engagement. He highlighted NASCAR’s proactive approach in bringing the sport directly to fans rather than relying on them to travel to traditional venues.
I’ve enjoyed the whole process, and I feel like it accomplished what we wanted to accomplish, and that is engaging with new fans, bringing the race to the fans, and not the fans to the race,
he remarked.
I think we have checked all the boxes, and honestly, until the last two days, maybe it’s because I am not on social media as much, or whatever it is, I didn’t know that there is a possibility that it would be the last one.
—Michael McDowell, NASCAR Driver
Reflecting on Chicago’s Legacy and NASCAR’s Future Path
If the Chicago race were to conclude, McDowell remains appreciative of its impact on NASCAR’s growth. He believes the event opened new opportunities by pushing the sport’s boundaries and encouraging fans to embrace new and perhaps uncomfortable experiences. He cited the NASCAR race in Mexico City as another example of the sport adapting successfully to fresh environments.
McDowell expressed hope that NASCAR continues to take bold steps forward but suggested the sanctioning body carefully consider regional weather trends before confirming future street race dates. Having experienced rain-soaked races in Chicago, he noted that weather frequently challenges the sport whenever it ventures into new locations.
Michael McDowell’s Strong Performances Amid Weather Challenges
Despite the adverse weather conditions that shortened both Chicago races, McDowell achieved impressive results. He secured back-to-back top-10 finishes, claiming seventh and fifth places starting from sixth and third on the grid, respectively. These performances underscore his adaptability and resilience in difficult racing circumstances while highlighting the significance of the Chicago Street Race in NASCAR’s evolving calendar.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Where is Michael McDowell going in 2025?
A. DePaul University plans to support Michael McDowell during the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series race held at the Chicago Street Course. The announcement comes from Spire Motorsports.