NASCAR Returns to Chicagoland: Jacque Herrera Shares the Inside Story
NASCAR Returns to Chicagoland: Jacque Herrera Shares the Inside Story
When NASCAR brought the Chicago Street Race to life, it wasn’t just about racing—it was about community. And few people understand that better than Jacque Herrera.
In a recent episode of the Women’s Motorsports Network Podcast, Jacque sat down with host Melinda Russell to talk about her journey into NASCAR, her work with the Chicago Street Race, and the exciting return of NASCAR to Chicagoland Speedway.
From Chicago Roots to NASCAR Leadership
Jacque grew up in Chicago and later attended Michigan State University before building a career in community and government relations. Her background prepared her perfectly for the role she would eventually take in motorsports.
Her journey into NASCAR started with a simple suggestion from her father.
When the Chicago Street Race was announced on television, he jokingly suggested she look for a job with the organization. She applied for the Director of Community Relations position—and the rest is history.
Connecting NASCAR with Chicago Communities
As Director of Community Relations, Jacque’s job was to ensure Chicago residents understood and welcomed NASCAR into the city.
Her team worked directly with:
· Community organizations
· Neighborhood leaders
· Schools and youth programs
· Local government offices
They reached all 77 Chicago neighborhoods and 50 wards, providing information about road closures, events, and community programs tied to the race.
This grassroots outreach helped make the Chicago Street Race a successful and memorable event.
NASCAR Returns to Chicagoland Speedway
After three years of street racing in downtown Chicago, NASCAR is heading back to Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet for a major Fourth of July race weekend.
For fans, this means returning to the traditional racetrack experience.
At Chicagoland Speedway, fans can enjoy:
· Full-track racing views
· Camping and tailgating
· Fan zones and sponsor activations
· Driver appearances
· Family activities
The facility seats about 44,000 fans, creating an electric atmosphere for race weekend.
A Family Experience
Jacque emphasizes that NASCAR events are designed for the entire family.
Kids can enjoy dedicated activity areas, and special ticket offers make the event more affordable for families.
There are also camping areas where fans gather for a full weekend of racing, entertainment, and community.
Women in Motorsports
Jacque also shared how welcoming the motorsports industry has been for her as a woman entering the field without prior racing experience.
She credits NASCAR leadership and colleagues for providing support, mentorship, and opportunities to grow in the sport.
Her story is another example of how women are making a major impact across every area of motorsports—from drivers to leadership roles.
Celebrating NASCAR Style
The upcoming Chicagoland race weekend promises racing, entertainment, fireworks, and community celebrations as fans gather to celebrate both NASCAR and the Fourth of July.
For longtime fans and newcomers alike, it's a chance to experience the excitement of motorsports in one of the Midwest’s premier racing venues.