Chase Elliott shares views on NASCAR Mexico City race as anticipation builds for the 2025 Viva México 250, an event set to mark NASCAR’s ambitious attempt to grow its presence beyond traditional U.S. borders. With the upcoming race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, the renowned driver discussed what this recent move means for the sport and for his own career.
NASCAR’s Path Toward International Expansion
For decades, NASCAR has remained a predominantly American spectacle, developed on the notoriety of regional drivers who shaped its early identity. This tight connection between home-grown racers, such as Bill Elliott, and passionate local fanbases made NASCAR a challenge to export, as the sport’s deep-seated national pride often impeded overseas inroads. Although attempts to branch into nearby countries and even other continents have met with mixed results, NASCAR now aims to inject new life into its international aspirations with the upcoming Mexico City event.
Chase Elliott Reflects on Heritage and World Tracks
Coming from a line of celebrated racers, Chase Elliott’s path was influenced deeply by his father, Bill Elliott, an accomplished figure in NASCAR lore. While Bill Elliott became known for his speed and aggressive tactics, Chase has embraced a more analytical, technique-based approach on the track. During a recent exchange with motorsports journalist Peter Stratta, Elliott acknowledged the personal meaning of certain races because of his father’s legacy, referencing Bill’s storied victory in Indianapolis.
“It means as much to me as anything on the schedule,”
—Chase Elliott, Driver
Anticipating the Unique Challenge of Racing in Mexico City
Turning attention to the 2025 Viva México 250, Elliott addressed the distinctive challenge presented by the Mexico City course, including its high elevation. He admitted uncertainty about exactly how those conditions would shape the event but noted that road circuits typically demand more physical exertion compared to the oval tracks that dominate NASCAR’s usual roster.
“Road courses are always more physical, in my opinion, than ovals are. You’re working a lot; shifting, plus, a lot of throttle and brake,”
—Chase Elliott, HMS Driver
Elliott added that the Mexico race has long been on his radar, and as the event approaches, he is preparing by taking steps to familiarize himself with the course and its demands. Regarding the significance of winning at an inaugural event, he was candid about the uncertainties associated with new additions to the Cup Series calendar.
“You always wanna get it while you can,”
—Chase Elliott, Driver
A Trial Run for NASCAR’s Global Future
Elliott sees the Mexico City event as more than just another stop on the schedule—it represents an experiment for NASCAR as it tests the waters internationally. He noted that there remains some uncertainty about the long-term place these events will have within the sport and expressed a curiosity about the operational and logistical implications of racing outside the U.S.
“I do think the Mexico City thing is seemingly a trial run to kind of see what racing outside the U.S. might look like and the logistics that go into it. So, I am as curious as everyone else,”
—Chase Elliott, Driver
Drivers Build Momentum Ahead of the Viva México 250
Earlier in the year, Elliott teamed up with fellow NASCAR drivers Ryan Blaney and Christopher Bell, as well as Daniel Suárez, on a visit to Mexico to promote the upcoming event. These efforts highlight the significance of connecting with fans and bringing heightened attention to the sport’s latest chapter. With the event just weeks away, Elliott’s enthusiasm for stepping onto international tracks remains high, and the trip underscores the league’s commitment to broader horizons.
The upcoming Mexico City race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez will not only challenge drivers with its unique course and altitude but may also serve as a critical test for NASCAR’s ambitions outside America. As established names such as Elliott, Blaney, and Suárez foster excitement, the race could signal a major shift in the growth and reach of stock car racing—both for its athletes and for the fans who continue to define its spirit.
