The conversation around NASCAR’s track selection has become increasingly intense, especially as Dale Earnhardt Jr supports Chicagoland return, aligning with voices in the industry who want the speedway to rejoin the Cup Series schedule potentially in 2026. Both Earnhardt Jr. and 2023 Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney have publicly called for the revival, boosting hopes among fans and stoking debate about the future of NASCAR racing venues.
Chicagoland Speedway completed its last NASCAR Cup Series duties in 2019 and has since been dormant, as anticipation for its comeback continues to grow. Once a regular stop for stock car racing, the 1.5-mile tri-oval in Joliet was pulled from the schedule in 2020, a move stemming from criticism over unexciting, predictable racing. Despite this, its legacy and location make it a focal point in industry discussions. Ryan Blaney, known for his advocacy of traditional ovals, has repeatedly highlighted the need to reintroduce Chicagoland to attract newer, younger audiences to the sport.
Recently, motorsports journalist Adam Stern provided key updates on social media, suggesting that a return of racing at Chicagoland is possible as early as 2026. Dale Earnhardt Jr. echoed this optimism, emphasizing the excitement a race there would offer, stating,
I’d gamble that it would be one of the most entertaining races of the season.
—Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Earnhardt Jr.’s remarks have resonated with fans, especially at a time when many express frustration about the proliferation of road courses. His enthusiasm signals new energy around the possibility, giving hope to those who view the track as a lost gem.
Main Factors Influencing the Speedway’s Possible Revival
Chicagoland Speedway’s fate is tightly linked to developments surrounding the Chicago Street Course. After the Speedway was dropped from the Cup Series, NASCAR shifted to Road America for 2021, then signed a three-year agreement to race on the Chicago streets starting in 2022. With that contract now concluded, new negotiations with city officials are underway to determine the next step. If a new deal cannot be secured, returning to Chicagoland emerges as a viable—and perhaps necessary—option, since the region remains highly valuable for the series’ exposure and business strategy.
Updates on these talks are anticipated soon, injecting further uncertainty and urgency into the process. At the same time, rumors have circulated about San Diego potentially joining the Cup Series calendar in 2026 as another urban race venue, complicating the decision matrix for NASCAR and further highlighting the competitive landscape among host cities.
Drivers Voice Their Support and Look to the Future
The excitement from within the NASCAR community, particularly from athletes like Blaney, has been unmistakable. The reigning champion has spoken directly to the merits of Chicagoland, voicing confusion over its removal and strong support for its return. He recently remarked,
I don’t know why we stopped going there in the first place. I guess I do know. They wanted to go to the city of Chicago and not Joliet. I would love to see that track come back personally.
—Ryan Blaney, 2023 Cup Series Champion
Such endorsements have rekindled trust in Chicagoland’s potential to host high-quality racing, especially with the introduction of the Next Gen car, which many believe could transform on-track action and revive the venue’s reputation. As negotiations and planning continue, both drivers and fans are poised to learn whether this dormant speedway will once again feature the excitement and competition that have defined NASCAR’s storied history.
The outcome of current contract talks, including city agreements and the interest of veteran figures like Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Ryan Blaney, will determine if and when Chicagoland Speedway makes its much-anticipated return, possibly as a highlight of the 2026 season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dale Earnhardt Jr. a billionaire?
A. As of 2025, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is believed to have a net worth of around $300 million. This wealth comes from his successful NASCAR driving career and his current role as a broadcaster. He continues to be influential through endorsements, owning a racing team, and various partnerships.
