Chicagoland Speedway | Joliet

The Chicagoland Speedway is a major motorsports complex located in Joliet, Illinois, about 30 miles southwest of downtown Chicago. Since its opening in 2001, it has been a prominent venue for NASCAR and IndyCar racing, known for its modern facilities, fast-paced racing, and significant role in American motorsports.

Track Design and Features

Chicagoland Speedway is a 1.5-mile (2.41 km) D-shaped tri-oval track designed to provide competitive and high-speed racing. The track’s layout features:

Four turns, each banked at 18 degrees, which allows cars to maintain high speeds through the corners.

A frontstretch (the main straightaway) banked at 11 degrees.

A backstretch with a gentler 5-degree banking.

A smooth racing surface that favors close competition and multiple racing lines, encouraging overtaking and exciting finishes.

The track is constructed with modern safety features and infrastructure that meet the standards for top-level racing series, including NASCAR Cup, Xfinity, and the Truck Series.

Capacity and Facilities

The speedway can seat approximately 47,000 spectators, with grandstands rising up to 15 stories high to provide excellent sightlines across the entire track.

The complex occupies around 930 acres, including a large infield area that houses media centers, medical facilities, team garages, and RV parking.

There is free parking on over 500 acres, accommodating more than 30,000 vehicles, facilitating easy access for fans.

The venue offers modern amenities such as concession stands, hospitality suites, and fan zones, enhancing the race-day experience.

Racing History and Events

From its inception, Chicagoland Speedway quickly established itself as a key stop on the NASCAR circuit:

The track hosted the NASCAR Cup Series’ Camping World 400 from 2001 until 2019. This race was often the opening event of the NASCAR playoffs, giving it high importance in the championship season.

The NASCAR Xfinity Series ran the Chicagoland 300 at the track annually during the same period.

The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series featured the Camping World 225 race here.

The IndyCar Series held the Peak Antifreeze Indy 300 at the speedway from 2001 to 2010. The IndyCar races at Chicagoland produced some of the closest and most thrilling finishes in the series’ history.

Notable Moments

One of the most memorable moments in IndyCar history took place at Chicagoland Speedway during the 2002 Peak Antifreeze Indy 300. Sam Hornish Jr. won the race by just 0.0024 seconds, the closest finish ever recorded in IndyCar racing.

In NASCAR history, the speedway has been the site of many important races, including Kevin Harvick’s first win in the 2002 Tropicana 400.

Ownership and Management

Originally built and operated by International Speedway Corporation, Chicagoland Speedway became part of NASCAR’s portfolio when NASCAR merged with ISC in 2019. The track is currently owned and operated by NASCAR, ensuring continued investment and integration into the national racing schedule.

Location and Access

Address: 500 Speedway Boulevard, Joliet, Illinois 60433.

The speedway is accessible via major highways, including Interstate 55, and is located near the city of Joliet, making it convenient for fans from Chicago and the surrounding region.

The facility offers ample parking and tailgating areas, making it popular not only for racing but also for social gatherings and fan events.

Additional Uses and Events

While primarily known for racing, Chicagoland Speedway occasionally hosts other events such as driving experiences, automotive expos, and community activities. Its large open spaces and facilities make it a versatile venue.

Summary

Chicagoland Speedway is a state-of-the-art motorsports venue that has played a significant role in American auto racing for over two decades. Its fast 1.5-mile tri-oval design, modern amenities, and rich history of exciting races make it a favorite among drivers and fans alike. The speedway’s combination of accessibility, seating capacity, and thrilling race action positions it as a key destination for motorsports enthusiasts in the Chicago metropolitan area and beyond.