Denny Hamlin, a prominent figure in the NASCAR Cup Series, has offered his candid perspectives on the sport’s evolving calendar, particularly the notable shift away from Chicago and the new addition of San Diego for the 2026 season.
The future of Chicago’s highly anticipated street race had been uncertain following the expiration of its three-year agreement with NASCAR earlier in July. Despite his vocal advocacy for its continuation, Hamlin, who had publicly expressed his desire for the series to remain in the Windy City, acknowledged the challenging logistics that ultimately led to its temporary removal from the schedule.
Just a fortnight after the Chicago decision, NASCAR officially unveiled San Diego as a new destination, with a road course event slated for Father’s Day weekend in 2026 at the historic Naval Base Coronado. This strategic move is not only set to add an exciting new circuit to the Cup Series but also aims to commemorate the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary, infusing the race with significant national symbolism.
Commenting on his popular podcast, Hamlin expressed genuine enthusiasm for the upcoming San Diego race. He highlighted the strategic advantages of returning to Southern California, anticipating that the region’s strong market presence would prove beneficial for team sponsors and provide ample opportunities for activation and fan engagement.
While Hamlin remains optimistic about San Diego, the decision to forego Chicago comes as a considerable blow to 23XI Racing, the team he co-owns with Michael Jordan. The urban setting of Chicago presented unique marketing and fan outreach opportunities that teams like 23XI Racing may now need to re-evaluate for future seasons, potentially impacting their broader engagement strategies.
However, the 2026 schedule shake-up isn’t entirely about removals; there are also whispers of returns. Reports suggest that Nashville Superspeedway could potentially re-enter the NASCAR calendar next season, marking its first appearance since 2019. This potential re-inclusion hints at NASCAR’s continuous effort to balance its schedule with a mix of traditional and innovative venues.
Looking beyond 2026, NASCAR has articulated clear intentions for the future of both the Chicago street race and the Mexico City event. Julie Giese, president of the Chicago Street Race, indicated a strong desire for the race to return in 2027, emphasizing efforts to refine the experience, streamline the build schedule, and enhance tourism appeal. Similarly, Mexico City, potentially absent in 2026 due to logistical complexities including its role as a 2026 FIFA World Cup host city, is also being considered for a 2027 comeback, demonstrating NASCAR’s commitment to these significant markets.
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