NASCAR to return to Chicagoland Speedway in 2026

CHICAGO — After more than five years, NASCAR’s adrenaline-pumping action will finally make a return to the Chicagoland Speedway.

NASCAR announced on Wednesday that racers will make their long-awaited return to Chicagoland Speedway, in Joliet, on July 4 and 5 in 2026, for the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and ARCA Menards Series races.

“We’re thrilled to bring NASCAR racing and the Cup Series’ Next Gen race car to Chicagoland Speedway for what promises to be an incredible Independence Day weekend celebration,” Pat Warren, Vice President of Midwest Region, NASCAR, said. “There is a history and tradition of great NASCAR racing at Chicagoland Speedway, so we look forward to building on the tremendous fan momentum throughout the entire state of Illinois.”

The ARCA Menards Series Race will take place on Friday, July 3, the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series event will take place on Saturday, July 4 and the Cup Series race is set to take place on Sunday, July 5.

The 1.5-mile track has not hosted a NASCAR race since 2019 after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the suspension of all racing activity across the country.

Prior to the hiatus, the speedway, which opened in 2001, hosted NASCAR’s premier series for 18 seasons.

“This is a fantastic homecoming for Joliet and the entire region,” Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy said. “Chicagoland Speedway has been a cornerstone of our community for more than two decades, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome NASCAR’s top stars back to our backyard. The economic impact and excitement this brings to our city is tremendous, and celebrating America’s birthday with some of the best racing in the world right here in Joliet is something special that our residents and visitors will never forget.”

Wednesday’s announcement comes a little over a month after NASCAR announced that the Chicago Street Race held downtown would not be returning in 2026, with the organization opting instead to host a street race in San Diego.

While tickets are not on sale just yet, the speedway is already allowing fans to lock in their seats by placing a deposit.  

Visit the Chicagoland Speedway website for more information on tickets, or visit the NASCAR website to see the season’s full schedule.