NASCAR returns to Chicagoland Speedway 2026 following a seven-year absence, as the series confirmed a special Independence Day event in Joliet, Illinois, during their latest national schedule announcement. The highly anticipated races will run from July 4 to July 5, 2026, marking a significant milestone for race fans and the Chicago region.
A Full Weekend of Racing Celebration
The July 2026 festivities will feature the NASCAR Cup Series, the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and the ARCA Menards Series, bringing top-level stock car racing excitement back to the 1.5-mile oval. The schedule includes the ARCA Menards Series Race on Friday, July 3, followed by the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series on Saturday, and culminating with the Cup Series race on Sunday. This marks NASCAR’s return to an Illinois venue that last hosted premier racing in 2019 before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Racing Community and Local Leaders Express Excitement
“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
“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 the state of Illinois.”
—Pat Warren, Vice President of Midwest Region, NASCAR
“This is a fantastic homecoming for Joliet and the entire region,”
—Terry D’Arcy, Mayor of Joliet, Illinois
“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.”
—Terry D’Arcy, Mayor of Joliet, Illinois
The Track’s History and Anticipated Return
Chicagoland Speedway first opened its doors in 2001 and quickly established itself as a go-to destination for stock car fans. Over 18 seasons, the venue hosted memorable races, including Alex Bowman’s first career victory at the 2019 Camping World 400 for Hendrick Motorsports. Racing activities paused after 2019 as the national pandemic suspended events. Since then, increased interest in intermediate oval racing and the introduction of NASCAR’s Next Gen Cup Series car has revitalized demand, making this return a meaningful event for both seasoned followers and new audiences.
Strengthening NASCAR’s Presence in Illinois
With Chicagoland Speedway’s inclusion in the 2026 calendar, NASCAR is reaffirming its dedication to not only Joliet but the greater Illinois region, where venues like World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison will also maintain the sport’s visibility. This upcoming July 4th weekend will spotlight the enduring bond between Illinois race fans, community residents, and one of America’s most iconic motorsports traditions.
Ticket Availability and What Lies Ahead
Fans wishing to attend the celebratory race weekend can place deposits for early ticket access on the Chicagoland Speedway website. Further information on ticketing and event schedules will be released in the following weeks, with updates available from both NASCAR and Chicagoland Speedway official sites. Anticipation is building as residents, visitors, and hundreds of thousands of fans look forward to welcoming NASCAR’s top stars and celebrating Independence Day at this beloved Illinois track after a lengthy hiatus.
