As NASCAR continues to look for new venues to host future races, officials have confirmed they are exploring the possibility of holding a street race in Chicago. The driving force behind this company is none other than Ben Kennedy, the grandson of NASCAR founder Bill France Sr.
Kennedy rose to the role of senior vice president of racing development and strategy, and spearheaded NASCAR’s decision to move the preseason Clash race from Daytona International Speedway to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The success of this change prompted the organization to explore other non-traditional locations to host future races, including the city of Chicago.
“We certainly continue to consider all options from a timing perspective,” Kennedy said in a statement. “Chicago is one of them. Nothing to confirm at this stage. We are still exploring a handful of different options, thinking not only about 2023 but also 2024 and beyond.
NASCAR already held a race at Chicagoland Speedway in 2019 and will likely not hold a race there again. But the idea of ​​street racing has become a popular topic discussed at NASCAR headquarters lately.
Another concept on the table would be an all-electric series, now that electric vehicles have become progressively more common among daily drivers. But because sound and noise are at the heart of the live NASCAR experience, Kennedy may have to take extra steps to get fans on board. “Our fans love the noise. They love the sound and feel of racing. If we go somewhere electric, I promise it will be entertaining.
