NASCAR reportedly set to pay an extra $2 million for the return Chicago Street Race to the city
NASCAR has agreed on a new deal with the city of Chicago for the 2024 edition of the street race.
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2023 Chicago Street Race (Via IMAGO)
The premier stock car racing body made street racing on the 75th anniversary of the sport in Chicago. A temporary track was made around Chicago Central Park, and the event turned out to be one of the season’s most successful races in viewership and attracting a diverse set of fans to the sport. The victory of ringer Shane van Gisbergen added another layer of excitement.
Despite the event’s success, there has been a long uncertainty over the event’s future after the new mayor took over the city. Brandon Johnson, who replaced ex-mayor Lori Lightfoot, wasn’t keen on keeping the race in the city but, after long negotiations, agreed on the new deal with additional financial benefits to the city.
As reported by the Chicago Tribune, NASCAR will pay the city an additional $2 million as part of the new deal. This cost is additional to the payment NASCAR would make, such as the projected $550K payment to Central Park, $360K in food, beverage, and merchandise sales commission, and the amusement taxes up to $2.1 million.
NASCAR hopes to provide more economic benefits to the community as they failed to hit the $113 million mark projected last year by a few million. They might win over the people whose lives are compromised while building the track if they are successful. If the goals are not achieved, NASCAR might consider other cities to host the event.
Shane van Gisbergen got a NASCAR career because of the race
Three-time Supercars champion Shane van Gisbergen was the highlight of the 2023 Chicago Street Race. The Kiwi driver made his Cup debut in the race driving the Project 91 Chevy Camaro ZL1 of Trackhouse Racing.
He used the vast experience he had in the street circuit from Supercars to his advantage to win the race against a star-studded NASCAR grid with over 95% of racers who were making street race debut. He became an overnight sensation and an instant fan favorite.
He got two more chances to show his skills in the Indy Cup and Truck Races and established himself as a talent worthy of the sport. Hence, Trackhouse signed him in a developmental deal that gives him a full-time Xfinity ride with Kaulig Racing in 2024 alongside selected Cup entries. He has now moved to the US and started training to become a full-time NASCAR driver.
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Justin P Joy
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