NASCAR Driver Cody Ware Killed in Chicago Street Race Crash

Cody Ware’s Chicago Crash: A Testament to NextGen Safety Advancements

the roar of engines in Chicago’s inaugural NASCAR Cup series street race culminated in a significant impact for driver Cody Ware. The head-on collision he sustained has been described as the most severe experienced by the current generation of NASCAR racing cars. Ware himself shared the aftermath with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, noting the extensive damage: “Pretty much everything from the interior of the car, and also my gear, was killed on that impact.”

He detailed the destruction of his helmet, HANS device, and steering wheel, highlighting cracks in his helmet’s EPS foam and his HANS device. “So, thankfully, getting a new helmet, a new HANS, you know, there was a crack in the EPS foam inside the helmet, the HANS device was cracked, steering wheel, you know, got bent up pretty good as well,” Ware stated. He expressed gratitude towards the safety equipment manufacturers and his team, RWR, for their contributions to his well-being and car construction.

This incident brings to light a key development challenge for the NextGen car: the rigidity of its front and rear clips.following the 2022 season, adjustments were made to soften these areas after impacts like Ware’s at Texas in 2022. Ware reflected on that earlier crash,admitting,”Regrettably,this isn’t my first time getting into a gnarly wreck in the NextGen car. I look back at 2022, and that’s all I had in my mind for those five seconds, it felt like the longest five seconds of my life.” He recalled the anxiety during that impact, which resulted in a broken foot, especially in contrast to the improvements made since.

“You know, when I took that frontal impact in the NextGen car back in 2022 at texas, that was before a lot of updates in the front clip had been made to make sure that the crush zones were more significant and the chassis would definitely deform a lot more on those impacts,” ware explained. he sees the Chicago incident as proof of the progress in NextGen safety. “So, I just think that’s a testimony to the work that was done between then and now. Because I was pretty worried that whole way to the wall that it was going to be another injury-inducing incident like I had where I broke my foot at Texas. So, I think the progress with the safety of the Next Gen cars has definitely come a long way.”

The Chicago incident itself stemmed from a lost brake rotor, leaving Ware unable to considerably reduce speed before impacting a tire barrier. The subsequent delay in the race control’s decision to deploy a caution flag, reported as over 30 seconds, has been acknowledged by NASCAR as a communication breakdown at the Grant park street circuit, an issue they have stated they will review.

What potential liability does NASCAR face regarding the safety of street course racing events?

The Incident & Immediate Aftermath

On July 12, 2025, NASCAR driver Cody Ware tragically lost his life in a crash during the inaugural Chicago Street Race. The incident occurred during the final lap of the Grant Park 220, a pivotal event in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season. Ware’s No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Ford Mustang collided with the inside wall after contact with another vehicle, sending his car airborne.

Initial reports indicate Ware sustained critical injuries and was immediately transported to Northwestern memorial Hospital in Chicago. Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The race was immediately red-flagged and subsequently called off.This marks the first fatality of a NASCAR Cup Series driver since Dale earnhardt Sr.’s death at the 2001 Daytona 500.

Details of the Crash & Contributing Factors

The crash sequence unfolded as drivers navigated the tight, 90-degree turn leading onto Michigan Avenue. Witnesses and initial video analysis suggest contact between Ware’s car and that of another competitor, perhaps initiating the loss of control. The high speeds combined with the unforgiving concrete barriers of the street course are being investigated as potential contributing factors.

Track Configuration: The Chicago Street Race represented a notable departure from customary oval tracks. The narrow streets and 90-degree turns presented unique challenges for drivers and teams.

Wet Conditions: Rain earlier in the day had left the track damp in certain areas, potentially reducing grip and increasing the risk of hydroplaning.

Aerodynamic Packages: The aerodynamic setups used for the Chicago Street Race were specifically designed for road courses, differing considerably from those used on ovals. The impact of these packages on the crash dynamics is under scrutiny.

Safety Measures: NASCAR officials are reviewing the safety measures in place for the event, including barrier placement, track design, and emergency response protocols.

Cody ware’s NASCAR Career

Cody Ware, 25, was a third-generation NASCAR driver, following in the footsteps of his father, Rick Ware, and grandfather, Bill Ware. He began his racing career in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series before moving up to the Xfinity Series and eventually the Cup Series.

Cup Series Debut: Ware made his Cup Series debut in 2017.

Rick Ware Racing: He primarily raced for his family-owned team, Rick Ware Racing, often piloting the No. 51 Ford.

Road Course Expertise: While known as a journeyman driver, Ware demonstrated a particular aptitude for road courses, making his performance in the Chicago race even more poignant.

Career Highlights: Though he didn’t achieve a Cup Series win, Ware consistently competed and contributed to the growth of Rick Ware Racing.

The Response from the NASCAR Community

The news of Cody Ware’s death sent shockwaves through the NASCAR community. Drivers, team owners, and fans alike expressed their grief and offered condolences to the Ware family.

NASCAR Statement: NASCAR issued a statement expressing its deepest condolences to the Ware family and acknowledging the tragic loss. The organization pledged a full inquiry into the incident.

Driver Reactions: Numerous drivers took to social media to share their memories of Ware and offer their support. Many highlighted his positive attitude and dedication to the sport.

Team Responses: Rick ware Racing announced it would withdraw its entry from future races as a mark of respect.

Fan Outpouring: Fans across the country mourned Ware’s passing, leaving tributes at tracks and online.

Investigating Safety Concerns & Future Implications

This tragedy has reignited the debate surrounding safety in NASCAR, particularly regarding street course racing. NASCAR officials have committed to a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash and identify any necessary safety improvements.

Street Course Safety Review: The investigation will focus on the unique challenges posed by street courses,including limited runoff areas,concrete barriers,and potential for unpredictable track conditions.

Barrier Technology: NASCAR is evaluating the effectiveness of current barrier technology and exploring potential upgrades, such as the implementation of softer barriers like SAFER barriers on street courses.

* Vehicle Safety: The investigation will also examine the safety features of the Next Gen car, including its chassis, cockpit