Ahead of this weekend’s NASCAR Chicago Street Race, drivers from all over the country have made their way to the Windy City to soak in the one-of-a-kind atmosphere and connect with fans. While the main event may be the race on Sunday, the drivers have been busy engaging with the community and spreading the love for NASCAR throughout the city.
One driver in particular, Bubba Wallace, has been making his presence known in Chicago. He understands that being a NASCAR driver is about more than just showing up on race day and driving. It’s also about connecting with the fans and giving back to the community.
“There’s a lot more to it than just showing up on Sunday and driving,” Wallace said. “We do a lot of community work, especially this weekend.”
On Friday morning, Wallace was in the Bronzeville neighborhood, meeting with Chicago’s youth at a Road Rally. He then made his way to North Lawndale for a block party, where he continued to interact with fans and spread the love for NASCAR.
“It’s just about getting people accustomed to what NASCAR is all about,” Wallace explained. And his efforts seem to be paying off, as more and more people are becoming fans of the sport.
But Wallace wasn’t the only driver making appearances around the city. Other drivers could be seen at the Chicago History Museum and even at Wrigley Field for the Cubs game against the Los Angeles Angels.
Outside of Wrigley Field, baseball fans were able to have some fun with a remote control racecar course before heading into the game. And for many, it was a great opportunity to experience the excitement of NASCAR in the heart of the city.
“I love that they’re combining NASCAR with the Cubs game,” said Cubs fan Andrea Beechum. “This is the furthest downtown we wanted to get for the city, but we’re still feeling a part of it.”
Indeed, the city of Chicago has fully embraced the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. And with the help of the drivers, the sport is gaining even more popularity among the local community.
But the festivities don’t stop there. Wallace will be hosting Bubba’s Block Party at Douglass Park on Friday evening from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. This event will feature live music, food, and of course, the opportunity to meet and interact with Wallace himself.
For NASCAR fans and non-fans alike, this weekend’s events in Chicago are not to be missed. It’s a chance to experience the thrill of racing in a new and exciting way, right in the heart of the city. And for the drivers, it’s a chance to connect with fans and give back to the community that has welcomed them with open arms.
So if you’re in Chicago this weekend, make sure to join in on the fun and catch the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. And who knows, you might just become a fan of the sport yourself.