Xfinity signs on as a partner for first Chicago Street Race Weekend

Xfinity has signed on as a founding partner for NASCAR's first Chicago Street Race Weekend, giving the event another corporate sponsor.

NASCAR announced the agreement on Thursday, providing Xfinity with presenting, marketing, and promotional rights for the July 1-2 race weekend. McDonald's and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois also are serving as founding partners.

"Whenever we want to do something bold to advance the sport and the fan experience, Xfinity has always been there to help us move NASCAR forward," Chicago Street Race President Julie Giese said in a release

As part of NASCAR's 75th anniversary season, the Cup Series will race against the backdrop of Lake Michigan and Grant Park on July 2 as part of a three-year deal with the city of Chicago. The Xfinity Series will hold The Loop 121 on the previous day.

The start-finish line for the 12-turn, 2.2-mile street course will be near Buckingham Fountain, and drivers will race by several downtown landmarks on Michigan Avenue, South Columbus Drive and DuSable Lake Shore Drive.

Preparing for race weekend could cause some headaches for the city, due to road closures and parking restrictions around Grant Park.