2025 NASCAR news today: Kids enjoy car-related events at Navy Pier, in Pilsen ahead of Chicago street race as future unclear
Share this @internewscast.com

CHICAGO (WLS) — Kids were catching NASCAR fever as they maneuvered remote control race cars at Navy Pier Wednesday.

As the races prepare to take over downtown this weekend, they are giving kids a taste of the experience now.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

“My son has enjoyed the sport for a number of years, and my wife and I saw it was here. And we wanted to bring him to share the experience,” Jamal Norman said. “It brings a different element to it. They have to have a lot of ability to shift and maneuver, which is a little different than driving on the oval.”

Kids at the Boys and Girls Club in Pilsen got an idea of what racing is like, as well.

They heard from drivers in a question and answer session.

NASCAR has also set up an array of activities, from LEGOs to virtual races: all designed to encourage potential racing team members of the future.

“I think it’s really fun that NASCAR is supporting the Boys and Girls Club with LEGOs and fun things for children,” Delayza Nillan said.

The pre-race events all lead up to the big weekend of racing. It’s the third year of a three-year contract for NASCAR.

They do have the right to extend the contract for two more years, and five downtown aldermen have signed a letter to NASCAR asking about their plans.

Alderman Brian Hopkins says the aldermen want to be at the bargaining table if the race continues in the city.

“Between the five aldermen who represent downtown, we have 250,000 residents. We’re responsible for airing their views and having their opinions heard. That didn’t happen last time. We’re going to make sure it happens this time,” 2nd Ward Alderman Brian Hopkins said.

NASCAR officials are a little preoccupied with the race this weekend, but they are still considering their options for the future.

They are also reportedly negotiating with the city of San Diego about holding a street race there.

“We’ll have those conversations. We’ve been having those conversations. We’ll handle that once we get through the weekend,” said Julie Giese, with NASCAR.

Chicago Bulls legend Derrick Rose will serve as grand marshal for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race.

He will give the famous “Drivers, start your engines” command in Grant Park.

NASCAR says Rose represents the heart of Chicago sports.

He called it an honor to be part of such a big event in his hometown.

NASCAR officials said they have no urgent deadline to determine whether they come back to Chicago next year, but they expect they will decide by early fall.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Remains of last female Hamas hostage and IDF soldier handed over to Israel

Israel Receives Remains of Final Female Hamas Hostage and IDF Soldier

Amb. Waltz: No one will be left behind in Gaza U.S. Ambassador…
78-year-old man missing in Oregon may have fallen in hole; police ask for help

Urgent Search: Oregon Police Seek Public’s Help to Find Missing 78-Year-Old Man Feared Fallen in Hole

In a bid to locate a missing elderly resident, Oregon authorities are…
GOP, Dems spar over shutdown, violence, ICE arrests in town hall

Fiery Town Hall Showdown: GOP and Democrats Clash Over Government Shutdown, Rising Violence, and ICE Arrests

During a riveting two-hour town hall on Wednesday night, NewsNation’s Chris Cuomo…
'No Kings' protests take place in Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville Protests Ignite: ‘No Kings’ Movement Challenges Authority

Protesters took to the streets in Jacksonville on Saturday, showcasing an array…
Trump immigration crackdown may eliminate 15M workers by 2035: Study

Study Projects Potential Loss of 15 Million Workers by 2035 Under Trump Immigration Policies

According to a newly released study, President Trump’s immigration policies are projected…

Felony Charge Against California Labor Leader for Immigration Protest Downgraded

In Los Angeles, the head of a Southern California labor union, arrested…
Orionid Meteor Shower returns | What to know

Spectacular Orionid Meteor Shower 2023: Essential Viewing Tips and Peak Dates Revealed

Prepare to witness nature’s celestial display as the Orionid meteor shower returns…
Why do people wear inflatable costumes to 'No Kings' protests?

Unpacking the Inflatable Costume Phenomenon: Why Protesters Choose Air-Filled Attire at ‘No Kings’ Demonstrations

The strategy first emerged in Portland, Oregon, amid protests against U.S. Immigration…
McDonald's worker shoots customer in neck during 'McMess' altercation, Florida sheriff says

Florida McDonald’s Incident: Employee Allegedly Shoots Customer Amid Dispute, Reports Sheriff

A recent incident at a McDonald’s in Polk County, Florida, took a…
Ashton Kutcher says his looks hurt his acting career

Ashton Kutcher Reveals How His Appearance Impacted His Acting Journey

Ashton Kutcher has confessed that his striking appearance may have sometimes been…
Watch live: 'No Kings' protests held across the country

Join the Movement: ‘No Kings’ Nationwide Protests Streamed Live – What You Need to Know

With over 2,500 events planned across the nation, tune in here for…
Fox News True Crime Newsletter: Alex Murdaugh's money man, Charles Manson's cult, 'Smiley Face' killer theory

The Untold Story of Alex Murdaugh: Greed and Corruption Topple a Lowcountry Legal Dynasty

The dramatic saga of Alex Murdaugh, a once-respected legal figure from South…