NASCAR generates $109 million for Chicago and plans 2024 return

The Chicago Sports Commission and Choose Chicago have released the official economic report for July’s NASCAR Chicago Street Race, indicating an impact of nearly $109 million for the city. The reports come just as Mayor Brandon Johnson and NASCAR have announced the street race will return to Chicago in 2024, as first reported by Crain’s.

The reports solidify the NASCAR street race as the second most impactful Chicago Sports Commission event to date, surpassed only by the 2020 NBA All-Star Game. Data shows the event supported 750 jobs and generated $8.3 million in local and state taxes. 

The event attracted nearly 80 thousand total attendees, with visitors generating over 29 thousand hotel room bookings. Of the 80 thousand in attendance, almost 50 thousand were unique attendees, including non-locals who traveled to Chicago specifically for the event. These attendees spent an average of $600 per day around the city.

The total impact of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race went beyond its economic effect. People from around the world tuned into Chicago over the course of the race, generating an additional $23.6 million in media impact.

According to Crain’s, the City of Chicago and NASCAR confirmed Wednesday that the street race will return to Grant Park in the summer of 2024. NASCAR’S 2024 event will reportedly receive a shorter window to occupy Grant Park and maintain its 3-year contract with the city, previously established by former mayor Lori Lightfoot.

“NASCAR has committed to growing its impressive investments in Chicago communities...", said Mayor Brandon Johnson in a statement, "The City looks forward to working with NASCAR and other stakeholders to deliver a successful Chicago Street Race weekend in 2024 that works for residents, fans and Chicago’s economy.”