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Toronto Star
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Toronto Star
NASCAR says no Chicago Street Race next year, but it could return in 2027
Drivers race in a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at the Grant Park 165 , Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) EH flag wire: true flag sponsored: false article_type: : sWebsitePrimaryPublication : publications/toronto_star bHasMigratedAvatar : false :
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Future of NASCAR's downtown Chicago weekend is unclear going into the third year of contract
People walk by as construction of the street course continues ahead of the NASCAR auto racs, Friday, June 27, 2025, in downtown Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) People walk by as construction of the street course continues ahead of the NASCAR auto racs, Friday, June 27, 2025, in downtown Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) CHICAGO (AP) — When it comes to NASCAR's upcoming return to downtown Chicago, Julie Giese has a long list of responsibilities. The track president is monitoring an ambitious construction schedule for the street course, to go along with everything else that goes into the busy weekend. What happens next is going to have to wait. Advertisement The future of NASCAR in Chicago is murky going into its third edition on the first weekend in July. The three-year contract between the motorsports organization and the city that was announced in 2022 has two mutual options, and their fate is unclear. Giese said there have been 'good conversations' between NASCAR and the city, and there is time to work on the possibilities beyond the event. 'So really right now the focus is on let's execute a really great 2025,' Giese said. 'We'll continue to have the conversations with the city. But right now, honestly, the more consistent conversations are the planning conversations.' Messages were left by The Associated Press seeking comment from Mayor Brandon Johnson's office. Johnson's predecessor, Lori Lightfoot, was in charge when the original agreement between NASCAR and the city was finalized. Advertisement The Athletic reported on June 18 that NASCAR was nearing an agreement to put a street race in the San Diego area next year. An announcement could come as soon as July. Asked if she had spoken with NASCAR or anyone in the San Diego area about a Southern California street race, Giese said her focus is on Chicago. She also said she feels there is room for multiple street courses on NASCAR's calendar. 'We have multiple road course races on the schedule,' she said. 'So I mean ... I've not ever heard where it has to be one or the other. I mean there is room. This event, we went into it that first year knowing full well it was a proof of concept. And we showed that it is possible.' The Xfinity and Cup Series races in Chicago — held on a 12-turn, 2.2-mile course against the backdrop of Lake Michigan and Grant Park — are the main events in a festival-like weekend that also includes music and entertainment options. Advertisement It is geared as much to a new audience in one of NASCAR's most important regions as it is to the most ardent racing fans. NASCAR used to race at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, a 45-mile drive from downtown, but it pulled out after the 2019 season. 'This is a top-three market for us, worldwide frankly, for NASCAR fans,' NASCAR executive Ben Kennedy said when the Chicago event was announced in 2022. There was some concern for drivers and their teams about the course ahead of the first weekend, and it wasn't exactly warmly received by local businesses and residents because of the street closures in a heavily trafficked area for tourists in the summer. But organizers have shrunk the construction schedule from 43 days in 2023 to 25 this year. Based on input from fans, they also have made adjustments to the race viewing areas and moved the concert stage to the start-finish line. Admission is free for kids 12 and under on Saturday and Sunday this year. Advertisement The weekend also has won over at least some people inside of NASCAR. 'This was very different. But now it's fun to see and hear from people in the industry that are coming in early, and they're going to just enjoy the city for a few days,' Giese said. 'The one piece that I hear from our drivers, especially, is they love just staying right at a hotel right across the street. They're walking across Michigan Avenue and they're at the course.' Quite often with an umbrella. Wet weather had a major effect on each of the first two editions. Heavy rain nearly scuttled the inaugural weekend, and last year's Cup Series race was shortened because of a rain delay and fading sunlight. When the drivers were on the course, the racing was compelling. Shane van Gisbergen outdueled Justin Haley and Chase Elliott on his way to a historic Cup victory in 2023, and Alex Bowman stopped an 80-race drought with his victory last year. Advertisement 'I think they've been up against it as far as conditions are concerned,' Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin said. "The track has been good, it's been racy and has passing zones and the scenery is fantastic as far as the backdrop we are racing in. There's a lot of positives for the Chicago Street Race. "It will probably move around in the future, but it's in the mold in which I would like to see any street race they continue to implement in the future.' ___ AP auto racing:
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
From baseball cards to big leagues: Jac Caglianone makes his home debut for the Royals vs Yankees
Kansas City Royals designated hitter Jac Caglianone (14) waits for an at bat during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Friday, June 6, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Kansas City Royals designated hitter Jac Caglianone (14) fouls the ball during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Friday, June 6, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Kansas City Royals designated hitter Jac Caglianone waits to take batting practice prior to a baseball game against the New York Yankees, Tuesday, June 10, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga) Kansas City Royals designated hitter Jac Caglianone waits to take batting practice prior to a baseball game against the New York Yankees, Tuesday, June 10, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga) Kansas City Royals designated hitter Jac Caglianone (14) waits for an at bat during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Friday, June 6, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Kansas City Royals designated hitter Jac Caglianone (14) fouls the ball during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Friday, June 6, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Kansas City Royals designated hitter Jac Caglianone waits to take batting practice prior to a baseball game against the New York Yankees, Tuesday, June 10, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga) KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jac Caglianone spent his first day off in his new home city searching for someplace to live. And buying baseball cards. Just what you might expect from a 22-year-old prospect — one of the best in the game — who was still playing college ball about this time last year, and who just made his big league debut for the Royals last week. Caglianone played three games in St. Louis and three against the White Sox in Chicago before finally making it back to Kansas City on Sunday night. Advertisement Two days later, Caglianone was set for his home debut in the opener of a three-game series against the New York Yankees. 'My grandpa is from New York. He grew up a big Yankees fan,' said Caglianone, who grew up in Florida and played collegiately for the Gators. 'He won't be here tonight or anything, but yeah, I'm sure he'll have it on TV.' Caglianone had plenty of support in the stands at Kauffman Stadium on Tuesday night, just like he had at Busch Stadium last week, when they saw his big league career get off to a slow start. The power-hitting first baseman and outfielder went 0 for 5 in his debut against the Cardinals, though he did record his first hit the following night in St. Louis. His big breakout came Sunday in Chicago, when Caglianone went 4 for 4 in helping Kansas City to a 7-5 win over the White Sox, and that has fueled Cags-mania in a rejuvenated baseball city still relishing the Royals' trip to the postseason last year. Advertisement 'We saw this on the road. Everybody's excited to see Jac play,' Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. 'I mean, we are too. You know, it's very unprecedented to have a guy here as quickly after his draft class, to be up here and helping produce. But at the end of the day, we brought him up because we think he can be a contributor to a winning baseball team.' So much so that the Royals are willing to endure some growing pains for Caglianone in the field. He primarily played first base in college, but the Royals are content with Vinnie Pasquantino at first base and catcher Salvador Perez making the occasional spot start there. So, they have shifted Caglianone to the outfield — where they have struggled with production all season — so that they can get his prodigious power in their meek-hitting lineup. Not surprisingly, Caglianone spent extra time fielding balls in right field before batting practice Tuesday night. He missed at least one that appeared to get lost in the sun, but otherwise Caglianone looked like he had been fielding the position for years. Advertisement 'We thought he looked really good in the few attempts that he had so far. I think right now you watch him go after the ball, he's playing a little cautious, which is better than being overly aggressive,' Kansas City general manager J.J. Picollo said. 'But there's a confidence about him that good players have, and with him, it's a blend of confidence and ability, which is good to see.' The Royals could use that jolt of confidence, having lost four of their last five series. And they could use a jolt at the plate where, despite hitting better of late, they still began Tuesday night last in the majors in homers and fourth-worst in runs scored. Caglianone seems unperturbed by the massive expectations that surround him, though. He nonchalantly answered a wide range of questions before his home debut, ranging from the excessive celebrations seen lately in the college game — 'Do whatever you want. Have fun with it,' he said — to what nickname he would prefer Royals fans adopt for him. 'I mean, I'm simple. I like Cags,' he said. Advertisement As for that trip to the card shop, Caglianone said he fared well. He was hunting for his new teammates and found a Cole Ragans card from the All-Star game, a Michael Massey rookie and, of course, cards of Perez and Bobby Witt Jr. Did he manage to pull his own rookie card? 'Did not,' he said, smiling. 'No.' ___ AP MLB:
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Smith and Taylor help the White Sox cool off the Tigers with an 8-1 victory
Detroit Tigers second baseman Gleyber Torres (25), left, can't catch Chicago White Sox's Michael A. Taylor (21) as he steals second during the eighth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Detroit Tigers' Wenceel Pérez (46) celebrates after scoring on a double from Dillon Dingler (13) during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Chicago White Sox's Michael A. Taylor (21) runs the bases after hitting a three-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers, Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Shane Smith (64) throws against the Detroit Tigers during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Shane Smith (64) throws against the Detroit Tigers during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Detroit Tigers second baseman Gleyber Torres (25), left, can't catch Chicago White Sox's Michael A. Taylor (21) as he steals second during the eighth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Detroit Tigers' Wenceel Pérez (46) celebrates after scoring on a double from Dillon Dingler (13) during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Chicago White Sox's Michael A. Taylor (21) runs the bases after hitting a three-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers, Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Shane Smith (64) throws against the Detroit Tigers during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) CHICAGO (AP) — Shane Smith pitched three-hit ball into the sixth inning, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Detroit Tigers 8-1 on Tuesday night to stop a four-game slide. Michael A. Taylor homered and drove in four runs for Chicago, which had dropped seven of eight overall. Smith (2-3) struck out six in 5 1/3 scoreless innings for his first win since April 24. Advertisement It was the first home win for the White Sox against the Tigers since June 4, 2023. They had lost a franchise-record 11 straight home games versus Detroit. Dillon Dingler hit an RBI double in the seventh to account for the Tigers' only run. The AL Central leaders had won seven of eight, including a 13-1 victory in the series opener. Taylor started in center field in place of Luis Robert Jr., who is making some adjustments at the plate and got the day off. Chicago opened a 4-0 lead when Taylor hit a three-run drive off Tyler Holton with two out in the sixth. It was his third homer of the season. Advertisement Austin Slater tacked on a two-run double in the seventh against Dylan Smith on a bullpen day for Detroit. The Tigers went 1 for 8 with runners in scoring position and stranded nine overall. Chicago jumped in front in the fourth. Brenan Hanifee replaced Brant Hurter (2-1) and committed a throwing error to help set up Taylor's bases-loaded walk. Key moment The Tigers loaded the bases with one out in the eighth, but Wenceel Pérez struck out swinging against Brandon Eisert before Dingler lined out to right. Key stat The White Sox improved to 3-15 against the AL Central this season. They went 10-42 against the division last year. Advertisement Up next Tigers right-hander Sawyer Gipson-Long is expected to make his season debut on Wednesday. He is coming back from elbow and hip surgeries. The White Sox are going with a bullpen day. ___ AP MLB:
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Abbott pitches 7 crisp innings as the Reds hold off the Cubs for a 6-2 win
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Colin Rea (53) throws against the Cincinnati Reds during the first inning of a baseball game Friday, May 30, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Cincinnati Reds' Tyler Stephenson (37) celebrates in the dugout after hitting a two-run home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, May 30, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Cincinnati Reds' TJ Friedl (29) runs the bases after hitting a home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, May 30, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Andrew Abbott (41) throws against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning of a baseball game Friday, May 30, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Andrew Abbott (41) throws against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning of a baseball game Friday, May 30, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Colin Rea (53) throws against the Cincinnati Reds during the first inning of a baseball game Friday, May 30, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Cincinnati Reds' Tyler Stephenson (37) celebrates in the dugout after hitting a two-run home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, May 30, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Cincinnati Reds' TJ Friedl (29) runs the bases after hitting a home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, May 30, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Andrew Abbott (41) throws against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning of a baseball game Friday, May 30, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) CHICAGO (AP) — Andrew Abbott pitched seven shutout innings in his third consecutive win, helping the Cincinnati Reds beat the Chicago Cubs 6-2 on Friday. TJ Friedl, Tyler Stephenson and Jake Fraley homered for Cincinnati, which improved to 3-1 on a six-game trip. Will Benson had two hits and scored twice. Advertisement The Reds played without outfielder Austin Hays, one of their best hitters. Hays was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left foot contusion. Abbott (5-0) allowed one hit, struck out eight and walked one. The left-hander improved to 3-0 with a sparkling 0.55 ERA in six May starts. Emilio Pagán got two outs for his 14th save, working out of a jam in the ninth. Chicago had won four in a row and seven of eight overall. The NL Central leaders took two of three against the Reds in Cincinnati last weekend. Cubs right-hander Colin Rea (3-2) was tagged for six runs and a season-high 10 hits in 5 2/3 innings. Advertisement Friedl drove Rea's third pitch of the game deep to right-center for his fourth homer of the season. Friedl also singled in the third for his seventh consecutive game with multiple hits. Stephenson connected for a two-run shot in the fourth, a 435-foot drive to center for his fourth homer. Fraley added another two-run shot in the sixth in his first game back after being sidelined by left calf tenderness. Chicago scored its two runs in the eighth. Michael Busch hit an RBI triple and scored on Matt Shaw's single to right. Key moment The Cubs had runners on first and second when Graham Ashcraft replaced Tony Santillan on the mound in the eighth. Ashcraft got Kyle Tucker to bounce into a 3-6-1 double play, ending the inning. Advertisement Key stat Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong struck out swinging in his first three at-bats before reaching on a bloop double in the ninth. He flung his bat off to the side in frustration after striking out for the final out in the fourth. Up next Left-hander Nick Lodolo (4-4, 3.39 ERA) starts on Saturday for the Reds. The Cubs were contemplating going with an opener, depending on Friday's game. ___ AP MLB:
