Kevin Harvick blasts Chicago race criticism after a local columnist called for the end of the city‘s involvement with NASCAR, sparking sharp debate over the future of the Chicago Street Race just after its third year. The outspoken former championship driver strongly rejected the criticism on his podcast, highlighting the event‘s excitement and success.
Growing Tensions Surround Chicago Street Race
NASCAR has drawn fresh crowds and attention in Chicago with its innovative street racing format, but not everyone has embraced the event. After three consecutive years hosting the race, the city finds itself at the center of a heated discussion over whether the tradition should continue. The conversation intensified when Steve Greenberg, a columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times, published a piece on Sunday evening calling for Chicago to cut its ties with NASCAR. In his article titled
“Dear NASCAR: End of the road in Chicago can’t come fast enough,”
Greenberg argued that the event is not the love letter to the city that its organizers claim and that it might be time for Chicago to “write a break-up letter” to the sport.
Harvick Defends NASCAR’s Chicago Event
Kevin Harvick, a former NASCAR Cup Series champion and now a FOX Sports announcer, wasted no time responding to the criticism. On his “Happy Hour” podcast, Harvick addressed the Sun-Times column directly.
“You’ve got some of these slapsticks like this guy from the Sun-Times, this Steve Greenberg guy that wrote the crappy story this morning,”
—Kevin Harvick, former NASCAR Cup Series champion
Harvick continued, dismissing those who attack the event without giving it a chance.
“But for the most part, people who actually want to pay attention and be part of the event do the things that aren’t just looking for a headline because they write bad stories.”
—Kevin Harvick, former NASCAR Cup Series champion
He stood firmly behind the Chicago Street Race, calling it a standout moment for the sport.
“One of the best events that NASCAR has ever decided to do.”
—Kevin Harvick, former NASCAR Cup Series champion
NASCAR’s Growing Fan Engagement in Chicago
Despite the criticism, Harvick pointed to the event‘s rising popularity among both loyal fans and newcomers. Sharing a personal anecdote, he described the excitement in his own home as the race unfolded on television.
“We went street racing, and it’s entertaining to watch,”
—Kevin Harvick, former NASCAR Cup Series champion
During the broadcast, Harvick noted the energy that close-quarters racing brings, as mistakes can be costly and produce unpredictable results unseen on traditional tracks. He emphasized how the unique format has generated fresh buzz and anticipation within the racing community and for the city itself.
“I think it’s one of the greatest events that they’ve created lately, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.”
—Kevin Harvick, former NASCAR Cup Series champion
Differing Views on Race Tradition and the City
Greenberg’s critique referenced Harvick’s earlier optimism when the Chicago Street Race launched, recalling a promise that Chicago’s relationship with NASCAR would thrive. According to Greenberg, Harvick once told fans,
“Once we get you out there in person, we won’t lose you,”
—Quoted by Steve Greenberg, Chicago Sun-Times columnist
Greenberg questioned whether the event ever truly captured the hearts of Chicago residents, implying that the anticipated local support never fully materialized.
The Road Ahead for NASCAR in Chicago
The debate lays bare the conflicted atmosphere around NASCAR’s continued presence in Chicago, a city whose sport scene is known for passionate responses to change. With the sport’s leadership, including Chicago Street Race president Julie Giese, committed to making the event a highlight for the city, the decision over its future remains in sharp focus. Harvick’s public defense signals that NASCAR’s supporters are not backing down, while vocal critics like Greenberg continue urging reflection on what the event truly brings to Chicago’s streets. As the city considers its racing future, the clash of perspectives between longtime champions and skeptical locals will likely shape the fate of the Chicago Street Race beyond 2025.
