MEXICO CITY — NASCAR is set to expand its global footprint with an exciting race weekend scheduled for June 13-15 in Mexico City. The announcement was made during a media event that attracted over 200 journalists, where NASCAR executives and top drivers shared their enthusiasm for the upcoming event. Tickets for the race will go on sale this week.
Key Takeaways
- NASCAR is hosting a race weekend in Mexico City from June 13-15.
- The event aims to engage a new audience and promote the sport internationally.
- Drivers Ryan Blaney, Daniel Suárez, Christopher Bell, and Chase Elliott participated in the media event.
- The event will feature a Netflix docuseries highlighting the journey of driver Daniel Suárez.
NASCAR Vice President Steve O’Donnell opened the event with a warm welcome in Spanish, emphasizing the significance of the race in a new country. Following a Q&A session with the drivers, the excitement was palpable as they engaged with the local media, showcasing their commitment to the sport and its growth.
"I would say today was awesome," O’Donnell remarked. "Seeing the enthusiasm from the drivers and the media here is refreshing. It’s what the sport is all about."
The event also included a preview of the upcoming Netflix docuseries titled "NASCAR: Full Speed," which features Daniel Suárez, the first Mexican-born driver to win in NASCAR’s top series. Suárez shared his inspiring story of perseverance, highlighting the challenges he faced while pursuing his dreams in the United States.
"I have done some things that seemed impossible by following my dreams," Suárez said in the film, reflecting on his journey from Monterrey to NASCAR stardom.
Chase Elliott, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception they received in Mexico City. "It’s a great honor for all of us involved," he stated, acknowledging the community's support.
Christopher Bell, who recently won at Atlanta Motor Speedway, echoed Elliott's sentiments, noting the unique experiences they had while exploring the city, from touring the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez to enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine.
The Significance of the Mexico City Race
The Mexico City race represents a significant milestone for NASCAR as it seeks to diversify its audience and engage with fans beyond the United States. The three-day event is expected to draw a large international crowd, providing a platform for cultural exchange and showcasing the sport to a new demographic.
"I love the fact of diversifying the schedule and going to new venues," Bell remarked. "This is a world-class facility, and it’s going to be fun seeing it all unfold."
As the excitement builds for the race weekend, event executive Federico Alamán González encapsulated the spirit of the occasion with a smile, declaring, "Gentlemen, start your engines!"
With the anticipation of a vibrant crowd and the promise of thrilling racing, NASCAR is poised to make a lasting impression in Mexico City, further solidifying its status as a global motorsport leader.