The idea of NASCAR organizing a street race did come out as an alien thought to many in the community at first. However, after last season’s display of the Chicago street race and the positive response it garnered, the vague idea now seems like a sensible option for the sport to attract more eyeballs. While last season’s feature had its challenges and weather playing spoilsport, it surely burst the bubble of doubt and opened a new perspective, even for the drivers.

Like many, Ryan Blaney had reservations about the race owing to the condition and nature of the event. But despite finishing 33rd, the driver enjoyed the atmosphere of racing in the streets. The only thing close to this experience was racing in the streets of Chicago in a video game, but finally, it was a reality. While the naysayers and doubters will do their due diligence in not appreciating the effort, the 2024 event will be even bigger. At least, that’s what Ryan Blaney is hoping for.

Blaney believes the 2024 Chicago Street Race will live up to its billing

The 2023 Chicago Street Race was not the full feature or event that NASCAR and the fans had envisioned. Perhaps there is a lingering feeling of unfinished business despite putting out a display last time around. With the street race back on the Cup Series schedule this season, Blaney feels that this season’s event is going to be a big success.

Speaking on Race, the Penske driver expressed his thoughts on the Chicago race for this season. “We were nervous and worried. How is this going to work out? Is it going to be a good race? I think we were all kind of proven wrong once the show got rolling. So, I think that (feeling) comes from all sides, and now it’s big excitement to go back, and there’s no second guessing or worrying is it going to work or not.”

He even explained that the feeling of excitement from the fans is mutual for many of the drivers in the NASCAR garage. “We know it’s going to work. We made it work in the worst conditions possible, so I’m sure everyone’s excitement level is through the roof, and that’s even on the driver’s side.” Blaney added.

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The brains behind the event Julie Giese also shared how the maiden Chicago race sparked interest even for non-race fans. And given that they have learned from last year’s experience, the event this year will be an exciting prospect.

The Chicago Street Race is growing popular among locals

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Giese serves as the Chicago Street Race President and led the charge of the successful event last season. From an event standpoint, the rain did hamper all the scheduled plans, but given that fans and the local community were able to witness the race, It was more than a success, and going into the 2024 event, the excitement is palpable amongst the fans.

“I think last year was just the unknown. It was. How are you doing it? How is this going to work? I think definitely this year, there is much more awareness, excitement, and understanding of the event. I think the No. 1 thing you hear from people is, yeah, I watched it, and it was amazing to see, the city looked fantastic. In spite of the weather, it was an amazing event.

“It’s fun when I go to events now because I’m not the only one explaining what it is. There are a lot of other voices in the room, advocates in the room, who saw it, watched it and are like, ‘this is really cool.”

The highly-anticipated NASCAR event in Chicago is scheduled for July 7, and hopefully this time around fans get to witness the uninterrupted street racing action.