For nearly 14 years, the Chicago Sports Commission has been dedicated to recruiting and supporting high-profile sporting events that drive economic impact and enhance the city’s global reputation. Most notably, the Chicago Sports Commission has successfully hosted several major events, including the 2015 and 2016 NFL Drafts, the 2018 Laver Cup, the 2020 NBA All-Star Game, NASCAR’s Chicago Street Race Weekend, and, recently in 2024, Premier League Mornings Live.
These events have solidified Chicago as a premier destination for world-class sports and entertainment, and contributed to the city’s dynamic sports culture, attracting thousands of visitors and generating significant economic benefits for the local community. The 2024 NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend generated $128 million in economic impact and $43.6 million in media impact, while both the 2015 and 2016 NFL Drafts were seen as pivotal moments in expanding the NFL Draft into a more accessible and fan-friendly spectacle, allowing fans closer to the action. Through its efforts, the Chicago Sports Commission continues to enhance Chicago’s standing as a leading host city for major sporting events worldwide.
The Chicago Sports Commission’s event resume includes:
- Discover NHL Winter Classic (2009, 2024)
- Premier League Mornings Live (2024)
- NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend (2023, 2024, 2025)
- Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament (2013, 2015, 2019 and 2023)
- NBA Draft Lottery and Combine (2019, 2024, 2025)
- Rolex United States Sail Grand Prix (2022, 2023)
- NCAA Men’s Basketball Midwest Regionals (2016, 2022)
- NBA All-Star(2020)
- Laver Cup(2018)
- NHL Draft(2017)
- MLS All-Star Game(2017)
- Frozen Four: NCAA DI Men’s Ice Hockey Championship (2017)
- The Rugby Weekend: IRFU vs. NZRU (2016, 2025)
- Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series (2016)
- NFL Draft (2015, 2016)
- World Triathlon Championship Series and Grand Final (2014, 2015)
See the Upcoming Events that are making their way to the best sports city on Earth and get involved in the action!
