For the third consecutive year, the NASCAR Cup Series will take to the streets of downtown Chicago for one of the most distinctive events on the schedule, the Grant Park 165. The 2.2-mile, 12-turn street circuit winds through iconic city roads including Columbus Drive, Michigan Avenue and Lake Shore Drive, with the start/finish line and pit road situated in front of the landmark Buckingham Fountain.
As the Cup Series returns to the heart of the city, it also revisits the shadow of Soldier Field, one of America’s most storied sports venues and a place with unique meaning for Wood Brothers Racing. Team founder Glenn Wood captured a NASCAR Convertible Division victory there on June 29, 1957, piloting his No. 22 Ford to the win in a race where only two drivers finished on the lead lap. His share of the purse was just $600.
That triumph was part of a short but notable stretch of NASCAR competition at Soldier Field, which also included a Cup Series race in 1956 and two other convertible events.
This time around, Josh Berry will take on the streets of downtown Chicago in the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford Mustang Dark Horse.
“Chicago is a tight and technical course that demands a lot of focus to navigate cleanly,” Berry said. “With heavy braking zones at most corners and everyone fighting for position, keeping the car in one piece is a big priority.
“Passing isn’t easy here, so being patient and methodical is key to making it to the end.”
Track activity begins Saturday with practice and qualifying scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on truTV. Sunday’s 75-lap, 165-mile street race is slated for 2 p.m. ET with broadcast coverage on TNT.