Shane van Gisbergen Leads Betting Odds for Thrilling Chicago Race!

Chicago, USA - As the engines rev up in anticipation of the 2025 Grant Park 165, excitement is palpable among NASCAR fans in Chicago. Taking place on July 6, 2025, this race is not just another event on the NASCAR Cup Series calendar; it’s a chance for the racers to showcase their skills on a challenging 12-turn, 2.2-mile circuit. Following his recent success in Mexico City, Shane van Gisbergen (SVG) has emerged as the favorite to snag the victory, boasting betting odds of +180, which would yield a handsome return for those willing to place a $100 bet on him. With racing being as unpredictable as it is thrilling, SVG’s strong start doesn’t guarantee him an easy ride as seen in last year’s Chicago race, where a collision cut his performance short in what was supposed to be a promising outing.

With a dynamic field of racers, SVG isn’t the only name to watch. Christopher Bell comes in at +700, while Kyle Larson sits close behind with odds of +750. Young stars like Ty Gibbs and Tyler Reddick both carry odds of +1100, while fan favorites Chase Elliott and William Byron are standing strong at +1200 and +1300, respectively. Newcomer Will Brown, the reigning Aussie Supercars champion having only just made his NASCAR debut, is listed at +2000, looking to make waves in his second start.

Probabilities and Surprises

The anticipated race begins at 2 p.m. ET, and with 41 entrants, this year marks the first occasion since 2018 where some drivers, notably five, will not qualify for the event. This includes experienced racers alongside lesser-known names such as Josh Bilicki and Austin Hill. According to CBS Sports, SVG won the inaugural Cup race on this street course in 2023, further solidifying his status as the pre-qualifying favorite for this race as well, having solid odds of +150 at the start of the weekend. However, expect every turn to bring surprises, something highlighted by the unpredictable nature of the sport.

For those looking for longshots, keep an eye on Ryan Blaney and Carson Hocevar, both at +4000, as well as other distant contenders like Austin Dillon and Ricky Stenhouse Jr., lingering at +20000. It’s worth noting that even the underdogs have their moments in the spotlight, and as we know, anything can happen in NASCAR racing.

The Challenge Ahead

The Grant Park 165 is not just about speed but also strategy, particularly given the challenging nature of the track where passing opportunities are limited. “The model has accurately predicted multiple race winners and has a track record of 24 winners since 2021,” states CBS Sports, pointing to a predictive model that’s taking this into account. Some notable names to consider for top finish bets include Michael McDowell, who is suggested for a Top 5 finish with odds of +275, and AJ Allmendinger, whose top-10 finish is a tempting +120. Both these racers understand the nuances of street course racing and could well outperform expectations.

This year’s Grant Park 165 promises thrills, and with veteran racers like Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott, alongside upcoming talents, the race should bring an engaging spectacle for both casual viewers and die-hard fans. So, as race day approaches, remember to buckle up and place your bets wisely. After all, in NASCAR, just like life, it’s about having a good hand but never really knowing how it will play out.