Pontiac, IL – Antique car enthusiasts in Illinois will have the chance to witness a unique spectacle when the 2025 Great Race makes a stop in downtown Pontiac on Monday, June 23.
The nationally celebrated nine-day, 2,300-mile rally will feature 120 classic vehicles as part of a cross-country time/speed/distance event. Spectators are invited to gather along Mill Street starting at 1 p.m. to meet drivers from around the world and get an up-close look at some of the rarest automobiles on the road — all at no cost to attend.
According to organizers, the Hemmings Great Race presented by Coker Tire will kick off Saturday, June 21, in St. Paul, Minnesota, and conclude in Irmo, South Carolina, on Sunday, June 29. Pontiac is one of 17 cities selected as a host stop, joining other communities across eight states from the Midwest to the Southeast.
“When the Great Race pulls into a city it becomes an instant festival,” said Jeff Stumb, race director. “Last year, we had several overnight stops with more than 10,000 spectators, on our way to having 250,000 people see the Great Race during the event.”
Vehicles eligible for the race must be manufactured in 1974 or earlier. The event’s unique scoring system gives older models a competitive edge, with cars like a 1913 Chevrolet and a 1916 Hudson Hillclimber expected to compete. The overall winner will receive $50,000, with a total purse of $160,000 across five racing classes.
The Great Race has grown in popularity since its 1983 debut and is now recognized as the world’s premier vintage rally competition.
Local residents with questions can contact Liz Vincent, Director of Community Enrichment for the City of Pontiac.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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