Denny Hamlin, known for his preference for stock car racing over road or street courses, has expressed evolving views about the Chicago Street Race. Since its inception in 2023, this event has quickly become a key highlight on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule, celebrated by fans, drivers, and NASCAR officials alike. The challenging 2.2-mile, 12-turn course winds through Grant Park, follows DuSable Lake Shore Drive, and climbs along Michigan Avenue, featuring a combination of tight corners, wide straights, and elevation shifts that demand both aggressive driving and precision.
Despite the race’s popularity, both its editions to date have been disrupted by rain, which Hamlin regrets. He reflected on the first race’s vibrant atmosphere, which was hampered by a downpour that forced officials to clear the venue, undermining the fans’ experience.
I hate that the street race has been mired by rain.
—Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing driver
Hamlin pointed out the danger that such disruptions pose to fan retention, cautioning that disappointment might deter spectators from returning in the future. Still, he remains optimistic about the race’s format and location.
The track has been good. It’s racy, it’s got passing zones. The scenery is fantastic — kind of the backdrop in which we’re racing in. There’s a lot of positives to the Chicago Street Race. Obviously, it probably will move around in the future, but it’s in the mold in which I would like to see any street race that we continue to implement,
he added.
Jeff Gordon Emphasizes Thrill of Wet Conditions at Chicago
Hendrick Motorsports Vice President Jeff Gordon takes a different stance on the rain interruptions, viewing wet-weather conditions as heightening the drama of road racing. He believes the challenge of drying pavement produces some of the most exciting moments in the sport. Both the 2023 and 2024 Grant Park 165 races were shortened by rain but remained action-packed.
Gordon highlighted the course’s design and the unique spectacle it offers.
It’s a very fun and flowy course,
he said.
It puts on a great show, and the drivers really love it… It’s such a cool event. To see our race cars screaming around the streets of Chicago and all the city has to offer, it’s so special for all of us competitors to be a part of.
Historic Moments and Strategic Wins Define the Chicago Race
The Chicago Street Race has already delivered remarkable achievements amid unpredictable weather. In its inaugural running, Shane van Gisbergen claimed victory, becoming the first driver in 60 years to win in his NASCAR Cup Series debut. The following year, Alex Bowman ended an 80-race winless streak under variable track conditions. While many leading drivers gambled on switching to slick tires as the track dried, Bowman chose to stay on wet-weather tires and maintained control to secure the win.
Growing Importance and Future Outlook for the Chicago Street Race
The Chicago Street Race is steadily cementing itself as one of the most exciting and cherished events in NASCAR’s calendar, despite the challenges posed by weather. For drivers like Hamlin and Gordon, the race combines the appeal of a demanding road course with the unique vibe created by racing through a major city. The event’s continued evolution and potential relocation suggest NASCAR’s commitment to integrating street races that test driver skill and captivate fans alike. As rain remains a variable, the unpredictable conditions only add to the event’s intensity and spectacle, promising more memorable moments in the years ahead.
