NASCAR lineup at Chicago: Starting order, pole for 2023 street race based on qualifying results

The first iteration of the Grant Park 220 is certain to have a distinctive flavor.

That's because not only is NASCAR in the Windy City, it's also in the Windy City; its drivers will traverse the asphalt of Chicago's business district. The first street circuit in NASCAR history, the 12-turn, 2.2-mile "track" is eerily similar to the commute of many of the city's yuppies. A real sport for the people.

No one knows quite what to expect on Sunday. Street circuits share similarities with road courses, in that they require drivers to slow their cars to a near-standstill when making their way around bends. That could make passing difficult, one of the more visually appealing parts of the sport.

The intrigue of the race should make up for any lack of entertainment value. This will be a marquee event, with more than 100,000 spectators expected to flock to downtown over the weekend. That's not to mention the millions more who will be watching NASCAR's latest innovation from home.

Who will win is anybody's guess, but on thing that could prove vital is sitting on the pole. In that vein, here's what you need to know about the starting lineup for Sunday's race.

MORE: Watch the Grant Park 220 on Fubo (free trial)

Who won the pole for Chicago in 2023?

Denny Hamlin nabbed the pole for Sunday's race, posting the fastest lap time in qualifying. He outpaced Tyler Reddick, who will join him on the front row. It's Hamlin's 39th career pole.

This is the 17th different track on which Hamlin will lead the cars to green.

MORE: Why NASCAR is on NBC instead of Fox

NASCAR at Chicago starting lineup 2023

Leading the field for Sunday's race are Denny Hamlin and Tyler Reddick on the front row.