The NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series events held at Grant Park in Chicago delivered thrilling racing moments in the 2025 season, highlighted by Shane van Gisbergen’s victories in both races. However, despite the success of the Grant Park 165, the future of NASCAR’s street racing in Chicago remains uncertain as the contract between NASCAR and the city has expired, with negotiations ongoing for future races. Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin strongly urged NASCAR to preserve the Chicago street race, warning that fans would not travel to the existing Chicagoland Speedway if the event moved there instead.

Mixed Views on the Future of NASCAR’s Chicago Race

While many in the NASCAR community express different opinions on whether to maintain or relocate the Chicago event, Hamlin has voiced reservations about shifting the race without a suitable alternative in place. He emphasized the importance of the atmosphere and the unique setting that the Chicago street race offers compared to standard oval tracks.

I mean, what’s the alternative? Until we know the alternative, I don’t know whether they’re ones better or worse than this…I just feel like this is a bigger event than what some of the ovals that we go through, simply because of the atmosphere of where it’s at. —Denny Hamlin, Driver

Hamlin highlighted the development of a new and younger fanbase in Chicago, which differs from NASCAR’s traditional audience. This demographic prefers the accessibility and excitement of an in-city street race rather than traveling to the Chicagoland Speedway, which lies outside the urban area.

The exposure to new fans that are here casually in the city… These are younger people, they’re not going to travel to Chicagoland to go to race…I don’t know if anyone shares the same sentiment I do, but I don’t run the series, I don’t make the decisions. But it just seems like from my standpoint, there’s more excitement around the venue itself than what a normal NASCAR race venue has. —Denny Hamlin, Driver

Concerns Over NASCAR’s Race Officiating in Chicago

Despite the on-track action, NASCAR faced criticism for poor officiating during the Chicago event. Unlike regular races where race control is centralized, this race was controlled remotely from Charlotte, North Carolina. This arrangement led to delayed caution flags and controversial calls, fueling frustration among drivers and fans alike.

A notable controversial moment involved veteran driver Cody Ware, who crashed into the tire barrier after brake failure. Officials took more than 30 seconds to deploy the caution flag, a delay that sparked suspicion and dissatisfaction within the NASCAR community.

Hamlin openly criticized the officiating system, questioning the practicality of managing numerous camera feeds from Charlotte instead of having dedicated officials on-site to monitor every corner carefully.

You know they’re (NASCAR) calling this race from Charlotte, North Carolina, right? I would like to know how many people they have watching the corners. If you got camera at every corner, which they say they do, you have to have a person per camera. You can’t look at multiple monitors and think you’re catching it all. That’s not realistic. —Denny Hamlin, Driver

Hamlin’s remarks highlight a recurring issue with NASCAR’s officiating this season, underscoring the need for improved staffing and more precise race management. With growing scrutiny on race control decisions, NASCAR faces pressure to enhance their operational standards to ensure safety and fairness.

Unique Atmosphere Drives Chicago Race’s Popularity

The Chicago street race stands out due to its urban setting and the vibrant atmosphere it produces, factors that Hamlin argues make it a larger and more exciting event than many traditional oval tracks on the schedule. The race in Grant Park attracts casual city spectators and draws a younger fanbase who might not otherwise engage with NASCAR at conventional venues.

Hamlin’s concern centers on losing this momentum if NASCAR reverts to the Chicagoland Speedway or other outlying tracks, which are less accessible and less attractive to the emerging group of younger fans who have supported the Chicago event’s growth.

The Stakes in Negotiations Between NASCAR and Chicago

Negotiations between NASCAR and city officials are reportedly ongoing but complex, with new demands from both sides potentially complicating an agreement. The outcome will influence whether the Grant Park race returns or if NASCAR will seek to move the street race to a different location, possibly sacrificing the newly developed fan enthusiasm.

Maintaining the Chicago street race could prove crucial for NASCAR in retaining a diverse and expanding audience, especially younger viewers whose engagement is vital for the sport’s future. Hamlin’s public support pressures NASCAR decision-makers to carefully weigh alternatives before making any changes.

Looking Ahead: NASCAR’s Challenge to Balance Tradition and Innovation

NASCAR faces a significant decision point as it wrestles with whether to continue the Chicago street race amid logistical and contractual challenges. From Hamlin’s perspective, the race’s unique setting and fresh fan appeal are irreplaceable, and any move away might weaken the connection with younger demographics.

At the same time, NASCAR must address persistent concerns about race officiating, ensuring that future events—whether at Chicago or elsewhere—are managed with better precision and safety oversight. How NASCAR navigates these issues will shape the sport’s trajectory in capturing new audiences while keeping its veteran fan base engaged.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?

A. Hamlin started his full-time Cup Series career with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2006. Since then, he has achieved a remarkable record. He has won 51 Cup Series races and three Daytona 500 titles in 2016, 2019, and 2020, and has also earned millions of dollars.

Q. Why did Denny Hamlin sue NASCAR?

A. Last year, 23XI and Front Row took legal action against NASCAR because they didn’t agree to new charter deals. They wanted a court order to keep their charter team status for this season. However, on Thursday, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia, sided with NASCAR.

Q. How did Denny Hamlin get rich?

A. His total fortune of $65 million comes from career earnings, endorsements, team ownership, and real estate investments.

How Hamlin Made His Millions:
✔ Huge income from NASCAR race winnings and contracts.
✔ Ongoing sponsorship deals with brands such as FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota.

Q. How is Denny Hamlin so rich?

A. The Secret to Hamlin’s Wealth: ✔ Large earnings from NASCAR race prizes and agreements. ✔ Long-lasting sponsorships with companies like FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota. ✔ Co-owns 23XI Racing with Michael Jordan, adding business success beyond just racing.