NASCAR is not the first racing series that planned to race on the streets of the Windy City.
of its planned 2023 event along the Lake Shore Drive and Soldier Field part of town, the press conference featured series officials and top Chicago officials.In 1980, Chicago media trumpeted the coming of an IndyCar race for downtown. That race was canceled 44 days later and never ended up happening.
"I think it's gonna be one of the most iconic race courses—maybe ever—and introduce a whole new fan base to what NASCAR is about in the city of Chicago. We couldn't pass up that opportunity," said mayor Lori Lightfoot."The fans of of NASCAR are broad and wide and deep. And the opportunity to really, I think, ignite our tourism with a new iconic event on the calendar was a no-miss opportunity.
Bowing to public pressure, Chicago mayor Jane Byrne killed a proposed IndyCar race for downtown Chicago just 44 days after it was announced in 1980.Both press conferences included a driver appearance. In 1980, IndyCar legend Rick Mears was on hand in Chicago. On Tuesday, it was Bubba Wallace talking NASCAR. Carl Haas, a team owner in CART and a Highland Park car designer, said in 1980,"This could make Chicago the Monaco of North America.
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