NASCAR is making a comeback to Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois, for the Fourth of July weekend, marking its first race at the venue since 2019. During a recent tire test, drivers, including Ryan Blaney (the 2023 Cup Series champion), expressed their enthusiasm about the track's character, which features wide seams and significant bumps that can lead to exciting racing moments. Blaney noted that these characteristics allow for more errors and competitive racing. The testing included teams from Ford, Chevrolet, and Toyota, with drivers like Kyle Larson and Denny Hamlin also participating. Chicagoland Speedway has experienced a decline in seating capacity over the years, from approximately 69,000 to 47,000, but the turnout for the test suggests a potential resurgence in fan interest. NASCAR hopes to draw in fans from the recent street races in Chicago, enhancing the sport's visibility in the region. The upcoming race promises to be a thrilling return for both drivers and fans alike.