NASCAR Set to Make History with First Cup Series Race in Mexico City in 2025

NASCAR is on the brink of a historic move, as it finalizes a deal to host a Cup Series race in Mexico City in 2025. This milestone will mark the first time in 67 years that NASCAR's premier series will venture outside the United States, with the last international race taking place in Toronto, Canada, in 1958. Sources familiar with the negotiations anticipate an official announcement as early as Tuesday, featuring NASCAR executive vice president Ben Kennedy alongside popular Mexican driver Daniel Suárez. The race is scheduled to take place at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, a world-class road course renowned for hosting Formula One events. The excitement doesn't stop there, as an Xfinity Series race is also planned for June 14, prior to the Cup Series event on June 15. This move is part of NASCAR's broader strategy to explore new markets and broaden its fan base, particularly in major metropolitan areas. Daniel Suárez, who hails from Monterrey, Mexico, has expressed his enthusiasm about the race, stating that it would fulfill a dream he's held since moving to the U.S. in 2011. "If that's real, it would be amazing," he said. "Winning that race for me, it would be as big as winning a championship." His sentiments echo the aspirations of many involved in the sport as NASCAR aims to connect with international fans. Adding an international race has been a long-standing goal for NASCAR, as the sport seeks to expand its reach beyond U.S. borders. The discussions with promoters from Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez and other venues in Mexico and Canada have been ongoing for years, but this agreement finally represents a breakthrough in those efforts. Ben Kennedy, who has been steering these initiatives, acknowledged the potential growth opportunities that international races present. "The opportunity for us to continue to expand internationally is a huge growth opportunity for the sport," he remarked. NASCAR's foray into Mexico comes at a time when the sport is gaining popularity there, with a resurgence noted in recent decades. The second-tier NASCAR series previously raced at the Autódromo from 2005 to 2008, and the venue has hosted Formula One since 2015, drawing enthusiastic crowds. Martin Truex Jr., who won an inaugural Xfinity race in Mexico City, reminisced about the vibrant atmosphere, describing it as "nuts" with loud fans celebrating their passion for racing. However, the addition of Mexico City to the NASCAR schedule could mean a reduction in races at Richmond Raceway, which may lose one of its two annual dates. Once a staple in NASCAR's schedule since 1959, Richmond has struggled to draw crowds and deliver exciting races in recent years. Denny Hamlin, a native of Chesterfield, Virginia, acknowledged the challenges faced by the Virginia track, noting the disconnect between high TV ratings and low attendance at the racetrack. NASCAR's anticipated announcement of the full 2025 Cup schedule will be closely watched, particularly with the inclusion of Mexico City. As the sport embraces new frontiers, it signals a commitment to engaging with a global audience, while also navigating the realities of its domestic venues. With excitement building for this landmark event, NASCAR fans can look forward to a thrilling race weekend in Mexico City, enriching the sport's legacy and celebrating its international reach.