As anticipation builds for the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series race, Denny Hamlin Chicago Street Race support is making headlines, as Hamlin strongly encourages NASCAR to keep the Chicago Street Race on its calendar beyond 2025. Hamlin, a key figure for Joe Gibbs Racing, believes the event’s location and energy are essential for attracting new fans and boosting excitement around the sport, especially in a major city like Chicago.
Hamlin’s Long View: Why the Chicago Street Race Belongs on the NASCAR Schedule
With more years behind the wheel than any other active driver in the NASCAR Cup Series, Denny Hamlin brings extensive insight into what makes a successful racing venue. Having raced full-time since 2006, Hamlin has witnessed various race tracks come and go from the competition’s tour, and his experience shapes his perspective on which events deserve to stay. The Chicago Street Race, in particular, stands out to him as valuable to both the series and the city.
Speaking from the temporary 2.2-mile street course winding through downtown Chicago, Hamlin emphasized the significance of keeping this race on the calendar. He pointed out the unique energy within the city, noting that people who don’t usually follow racing have shown curiosity and enthusiasm about the event, which brings benefits for both NASCAR and Chicago itself.
“I personally would like to see them do everything they can to keep it here,”
—Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing driver
The veteran racer highlighted the race’s contribution to the local economy and noted its ability to introduce the sport to fresh audiences. He observed that even people in his hotel, many of whom are not traditional racing fans, are discussing the event and considering attending, something he sees as a major indicator of its value for growing NASCAR’s national appeal.
“I think it’s very important. I think you try everything you can to get this thing back here in Chicago, because I believe it is an important place for us.”
—Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing driver
Comparing Chicago’s Unique Setting to Other NASCAR Events
Unlike traditional oval tracks such as Chicagoland Speedway, located about 45 minutes away in Joliet, Illinois, the Chicago Street Race places NASCAR directly in the heart of the city. This accessibility, Hamlin argues, is pivotal. When the race is held downtown, it draws in younger spectators and city residents who wouldn’t typically travel out to suburban venues. Hamlin recounted his own experiences talking to locals while shopping, finding that many expressed interest in attending since the race was within walking distance—a convenience not offered by more remote tracks.
“For instance, I went shopping yesterday. I go to all these different stores, and it’s, ‘What are you in town for?’ ‘Oh yeah, there’s a race. We were talking about going to that. We didn’t go last year because of the rain, but we’re thinking about going.’ These are younger people that are not going to travel to Chicagoland (Speedway, about 45 minutes away in Joliet, Illinois) to go to a race. You have to have it right here where they can walk to it.”
—Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing driver
Reflecting on weather challenges that affected both prior runnings of the Chicago Street Race, Hamlin still sees the positives outweighing the negatives. For him, the urban atmosphere and the visible excitement among non-traditional fans set Chicago apart, making it a more significant event than many long-established tracks on the Cup Series circuit.
Hamlin on Divergent Views Within the Garage
While Hamlin’s passion for keeping the race is clear, he admits uncertainty about whether other drivers or figures in the NASCAR garage share his enthusiasm. Some may prefer the predictability or tradition of other venues. However, Hamlin remains focused on what he believes is best for the future visibility and reach of NASCAR, using his years of experience to inform his recommendation.
“I don’t know if anyone shares the same sentiment I do,”
—Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing driver
Hamlin openly acknowledges that he does not have a say in the final decision, making his voice one among many, but feels confident that the Chicago venue brings a level of excitement not found elsewhere.
“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, Joe Gibbs Racing driver
Looking Forward: The Potential Impact of Hamlin’s Advocacy
With ongoing discussions about NASCAR’s future schedule, Hamlin’s advocacy for the Chicago Street Race highlights the continuing debate about tradition versus innovation. His comments, rooted in experience and a desire to see the sport engage with new audiences, could influence how decision-makers at NASCAR and city officials approach this event’s future. If the event remains on the schedule, it may continue to generate buzz and expose new fans to NASCAR, strengthening its presence in urban markets and reenergizing one of America’s iconic cities.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Starting his full-time Cup Series career in 2006 with Joe Gibbs Racing, Hamlin has achieved an impressive record. He has won 51 Cup Series races, including three Daytona 500 titles in 2016, 2019, and 2020, and has also accumulated significant earnings.
Q. Why did NASCAR penalize Denny Hamlin?
A. Denny Hamlin and his team faced a penalty for breaking engine inspection rules. NASCAR penalized the No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing team on Thursday with an L2-level penalty. This happened because they violated NASCAR’s Sections 14.7 requirements.
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get rich?
A. He has created a huge fortune of $65 million through his career earnings, sponsorships, involvement in team ownership, and real estate ventures.
How Hamlin Built His Wealth: ✔ Big earnings from NASCAR, including prize money and contracts. ✔ Ongoing sponsorship agreements with companies like FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin lose 75 points for engine violation?
A. NASCAR penalized Denny Hamlin and car owner Joe Gibbs for breaking engine seal rules after Hamlin won at Bristol in the spring.
The penalty included a deduction of 75 regular-season points and 10 playoff points. NASCAR shared this decision on Thursday.
The Chicago race is sickening. Ugly area, it’s a street not a track, chopped together coverage. Go back to the most beautiful track, Road America!