Chris Knight

Chris Knight has served as a senior staff writer and news editor for CATCHFENCE.com since 2001.
In his 20-plus years with CATCHFENCE.com, he has covered NASCAR’s top three national series, often breaking news and providing exclusive at-track content, including in-depth race weekend coverage. He also offers insider coverage of the entire Motorsports platform, including the ARCA Menards Series.
In 2022, Knight became co-owner of CATCHFENCE.com.
In addition to his active duties at CATCHFENCE.com and other Motorsports-related endeavors, he is also a frequent contributor to SiriusXM Satellite Radio NASCAR Channel 90. You can follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @Knighter01 or on Instagram, Snapchat, or Threads at @TheKnighter01. He can be reached by email at [email protected].

NASCAR is hitting pause on its Chicago Street Race for a year, officials said.

In a statement, NASCAR officials said they will not be returning to the Loop for the Chicago Street Race in 2026 “to afford us the time necessary to work collaboratively with the City of Chicago.”

NASCAR said they will work with the city to find a possible new date for the race and also develop a new, more efficient plan, “with a goal to return to the street of Chicago in 2027.”

The NASCAR Chicago Street Race, officially called the Grand Park 165, has taken over the roads in and around Grant Park for the past three years, with the first race in 2023.

City and NASCAR officials have touted its power to attract thousands of fans from around the world to the city, boosting the local economy. Chicago Sports Commission Executive Director Kara Bachman said in 2024, the economic impact from the event was $128 million, which was 17.5% higher than 2023.

But not everyone is thrilled by the race; residents who live near the course and in adjacent neighborhoods have complained about the street closures, the parking restrictions, and the noise from the race.

Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office released a statement on the announcement, writing, “We appreciate NASCAR’s dedication to the City of Chicago and their commitment to continuing their community engagement efforts, particularly their support of STEM education for our city’s young people. We look forward to resuming discussions around a potential return of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race in 2027.”

Ald. Bill Conway, whose 34th ward partially includes the area where the race has been held, also released a statement, saying “It’s disappointing that negotiators haven’t been able to move this event off the July 4th weekend—especially given how NASCAR has provided Chicago the opportunity to shine on the world stage. Over the past two years, NASCAR has made meaningful efforts to reduce disruptions for residents and businesses along the race route, streamline setup and takedown, and maintain open lines of communication with our community. I hope parties return to the table with a commitment to making this event work even better for Chicago, both logistically and financially.”

Sarah Fisher, a former IndyCar driver, is now supporting her 11-year-old son, Danny O’Gara, as he pursues a racing career. Recently, Danny achieved two victories at the Indy Karting Challenge and is currently competing in the Lucas Oil School of Racing formula car championship, where he ranks fourth overall in his debut season. Fisher emphasizes the challenges of supporting a young racer financially, highlighting the necessity for sponsorship in their journey toward professional racing. Both mother and son are focused on building a future in IndyCar or NASCAR.

By the Numbers

• Danny has secured wins in top karting series including the SKUSA Winter Series and the Route 66 Championship.
• He currently sits fourth in points in the Lucas Oil School of Racing championship with four rounds remaining in his first season.

State of Play

• Fisher is seeking sponsorship to support Danny’s racing ambitions, which involve increasing costs related to entry fees and equipment.
• Geared up with a long-term development program alongside BRANDed Management, the goal is to elevate Danny to higher levels of racing.

What’s Next

Fisher and her team aim to secure financial backing to support Danny’s participation in upcoming races, striving for a future in IndyCar or NASCAR. The family plans to strengthen partnerships with sponsors that align with their vision for developing young racing talent.

Bottom Line

Support and sponsorship are essential for Danny O’Gara’s progression in racing as he aims to follow in his mother’s footsteps. Investing in his journey could yield the next generation of motorsport stars.

“We’re thrilled to bring the excitement of the Savannah Bananas to NASCAR fans with this one-of-a-kind collaboration,” said Mike Perman, Senior Vice President, CW Sports. “Partnering with Viking Motorsports allows us to engage a passionate and loyal sports audience ahead of the Bananas’ broadcast debut on The CW.”

“We’re honored to represent The CW and the Savannah Bananas on track at Indianapolis,” said Don Sackett, owner of Viking Motorsports. “This partnership is a perfect reflection of what Viking Motorsports is all about—pushing boundaries, engaging fans, and having fun doing it. We’re excited to help bring the energy of Banana Ball to the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Matt behind the wheel.”

Founded in 2016, the Savannah Bananas have revolutionized the baseball experience with choreographed dances, flaming bats, celebratory antics, and nonstop surprises. With over 9.8 million followers on TikTok, the Bananas have surpassed every team in MLB, NFL, NBA, and NHL in social reach. Every game at Savannah’s historic Grayson Stadium has sold out since their inception.

NASCAR announced Friday that it would pause the Chicago Street Race in 2026 after completing its three-year contract with the city, NASCAR and Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office confirmed.

The three-year deal for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race was reached during former mayor Lori Lightfoot’s term, with the deal including a two-year renewal option, according to the Chicago Tribune.

A letter from NASCAR sent to Johnson’s office attributed the decision to needing more time to reschedule the event and further reduce the buildup and breakdown times associated with the race.

Julia Giese, the president of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, said NASCAR aims to return to Chicago in 2027 with a new date and shorter build schedule, according to the Tribune.

Giese added that NASCAR will remain active in community engagement efforts in Chicago next year despite the race’s hiatus.

In a statement, Johnson iterated a desire to move the race away from Independence Day weekend in an effort to reduce strain on law enforcement, adding that the city will explore new potential dates for a 2027 race.

Granite State De-Icing Supply has increased their sponsorship with Spencer Boyd from an associate level to the Primary sponsor for the 76 truck at the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at New Hampshire Speedway in 2025. This will make it the first time Granite State De-Icing Supply’s logo has been on the hood of a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series truck.

Granite State De-Icing Supply provides New England and beyond all the equipment, materials and education needed to implement a liquids program to snow service operations.

Spencer Boyd, Driver and Co-Owner of Freedom Racing Enterprises commented, “When I wear the owner hat, I am honored when an associate sponsor steps up to the primary level. It shows we are delivering what we promised from our marketing program. When I wear the driver helmet, I get pumped to rep a new paint scheme on the track. We’ve got a sick one here going to New Hampshire.”

With over 35 years of experience in the snow industry, the team at Granite State De-Icing Supply offers expert advice, personalized service, and ongoing support and education to ensure complete satisfaction.

President of Granite State De-Icing Supply, Shawn O’Keefe offered this in response to the announcement, “I love supporting race car drivers. It is a passion of mine and I believe in its worth as a marketing platform. Spencer has been a great partner for our business as he’s always looking to network in addition to all that social media he does. We’re super excited to have the (NASCAR Craftsman) Truck Series come to New Hampshire this year as we are based in Merrimack, NH and can promote right here in our backyard.”

Fans will be able to see the No. 76 Granite State De-Icing Supply Chevrolet Silverado on track and prior to the race as it will be on display at the Royal Plaza Trade Center on Wednesday September 17, 2025 for the NE Public Works Expo in Marlborough, MA. Spencer will be in attendance as well to sign autographs and chat with fans.

In addition to this great activation, Granite State De-Icing Supply will be hosting some giveaways for fans via their social media channels. Spencer encourages everyone to give them a follow to find out just what is in store!

The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Race at New Hampshire Speedway is set for Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 12:00pm ET. Catch the action in person with tickets still available or on TV live on FS1.

Spencer Boyd PR