CHICAGO — Nick Sanchez, the rising Cuban-American NASCAR driver, is set to compete in his first-ever street race during Chicago’s highly anticipated NASCAR Street Race this weekend — marking a pivotal moment in his career and a milestone for Latino representation in the sport.
The 22-year-old Florida native has quickly become a standout figure in the racing world, not only for his track performance but also for the cultural shift he represents. His journey from go-karting in Miami to competing at one of NASCAR’s most publicized events is a testament to perseverance, diversity, and a passion for speed.
From Miami Dreams to National Spotlight
Sanchez’s passion for racing ignited early. He attended his first NASCAR race at just 5 years old and began racing go-karts by 12. That hobby turned professional thanks to NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program, which trains promising drivers from underrepresented backgrounds.
“I’m definitely one of the few,” Sanchez told WGN, acknowledging the lack of Latino representation in NASCAR. “But now, really, we’re expanding and broadening the horizon for NASCAR.”
After being selected for the program, Sanchez earned rides in NASCAR’s Whelan All-American Series and the K&N Pro Series East. His breakthrough came in 2021 when he won three ARCA Menards Series races and took home the championship.
A Rookie of the Year With Big Aspirations
In 2023, Sanchez became Rookie of the Year in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series — the only rookie that season to make it into the playoffs. He returned to the Xfinity Series in 2024, and in June 2025, secured his first career win at Echopark Speedway in Atlanta.
Fresh off that victory, he’s now preparing to navigate the twists and turns of downtown Chicago for the Loop 110, piloting the No. 48 Big Machine Pickers Vodka Chevrolet.
Chicago’s Streets Offer a New Challenge
“This is going to be the first street race for me,” Sanchez said. “It’s a different vibe, a different environment… just walking into the racetrack in the morning.”
The Chicago Street Race is only in its second year and already gaining notoriety for its unique urban layout. The track winds through downtown landmarks like Grant Park and Michigan Avenue, offering both visual spectacle and logistical challenges for drivers used to speedways.
For Sanchez, the Chicago visit brings back faint memories of a trip he made when he was six years old. This time, his return included throwing the ceremonial first pitch at a White Sox game — a personal milestone for someone who never considered himself a baseball fan, despite his Cuban roots.
Representation Matters in NASCAR
Sanchez’s presence in Chicago is more than just another driver arriving for a race weekend — it’s a sign of progress. NASCAR has long been seen as a sport dominated by white American drivers, but initiatives like Drive for Diversity are slowly changing that narrative.
By performing well at marquee events like this one, Sanchez hopes to inspire the next generation of Latino fans and racers.
“I hope I don’t screw it up,” Sanchez joked about his ceremonial pitch. But on the track, he’s far from unsure — focused and ready to compete in front of thousands of Chicagoans.
Event Details for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race
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Event: The Loop 110 — NASCAR Xfinity Series
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Location: Downtown Chicago (around Grant Park)
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Sanchez’s Car: No. 48 Big Machine Pickers Vodka Chevrolet
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Where to Watch: NBC Sports, NASCAR.com, or live at the race
What Do You Think?
Will Nick Sanchez’s journey inspire more diversity in motorsports? Drop your thoughts in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
