Chicagoland Speedway to add lights, move Cup race to Saturday night

The Associated Press

Wednesday, Sep. 26, 2007

Chicagoland Speedway will install lights in time for the 2008 racing season, becoming the 10th current NASCAR Nextel Cup oval to hold night racing, beginning with the race on Saturday, July 12.

“We are very excited to announce the addition of lights to Chicagoland Speedway for the upcoming 2008 season,” said Matthew Alexander, president of the Joliet, Ill., track.

“Other NASCAR tracks with lights have experienced tremendous success when hosting night races and we anticipate similar results at Chicagoland Speedway. This is an exciting step for the growth of racing in the Chicago market.”

Alexander also noted that the lights could be a big factor in making the spectators who attend the races at Chicagoland a lot more comfortable.

“Traditionally, our NASCAR races have taken place during the time of year when excessive heat can become an issue for our fans,” he said.

“By adding lights to our facility, we hope to make the guest experience a more comfortable one.

“In addition, we will now have the flexibility to run events later in the day in the event of inclement weather.”

Chicagoland Speedway and the adjoining Route 66 Raceway are owned by International Speedway Corp., a part of the France family's NASCAR empire, and owns and/or operates 13 tracks.

reprint or license