NASCAR Reportedly Cuts $2 Million Annual Sponsorship Ahead Of 2025 Season

3 hours ago 4

McDonald's has reportedly decided to end its partnership with NASCAR's Chicago Street Race, bringing its $2 million annual sponsorship to an end after just two years.

The fast-food chain has been removed from the NASCAR Chicago website as a founding partner, making it seem that their alliance has come to a close.

Starting in 2023, this sponsorship initially positioned McDonald's as a huge player in promoting and branding the street race, but it has now withdrawn its support.

The Chicago Street Race, which first took place in 2023, is a new addition to the NASCAR calendar, occurring under a three-year agreement with the city that's expected to continue through 2025.

This unique event, set in downtown Chicago, takes racers through a 75-lap challenge. McDonald's involvement tied the race to local roots, given the company's founding in Chicago.

Their branding was prominent in many parts of the event, including Buckingham Fountain, concert stages, and entrances.

Despite McDonald's departure from this specific race, the corporation maintains a strong presence in NASCAR through its sponsorship of 23XI Racing, which is co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin.

This includes endorsing drivers like Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick, whose vehicles wore the McDonald's logo during the 2024 NASCAR season, with plans for continued representation in 2025.

With McDonald's leaving behind a substantial $2 million-per-year sponsorship gap, the street race is set to proceed with remaining founding partners ABB, Blue Cross BlueShield of Illinois, and Xfinity, in addition to official sponsors DraftKings, Busch Light, and Liquid Death working to fill the void.

The upcoming July 6 race will be broadcast on TNT Sports and streamed on Max, promising wide coverage even with these sponsorship changes.