As anticipation intensifies for the Mexico City NASCAR race, Chase Elliott’s preparation for Mexico City NASCAR road course race has drawn attention due to the circuit’s high elevation and physical demands. The event, set at 7,342 feet above sea level, presents a new challenge for drivers unaccustomed to racing in such conditions, pushing them to adapt quickly both mentally and physically.
Confronting the Physical Demands of the Mexico City Circuit
The NASCAR community views the Mexico City road course as a significant opportunity, yet Elliott believes it will test drivers more than most oval tracks. The high elevation and intricate layout require a unique approach, with every lap demanding heightened stamina and adaptability.
Elliott shared his thoughts on the added physical intensity required for road courses, explaining that these tracks involve more gear shifting and a heavier reliance on throttle and braking than fans may realize. He underscored that these physical requirements add another layer of difficulty, especially on a track that most drivers have never experienced.
With that being said, I know for one thing: When you go out west and you go climb a flight of stairs, it’s different than climbing a flight of stairs at home, right? And I think everybody can attest to that it’s been at a higher elevation.
—Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
Adjusting Preparation Strategies for Altitude and Heat
Faced with the dual challenge of heat and elevation, Elliott considered arriving in Mexico City earlier than usual to acclimate. He noted that as the race progresses, adjusting to both the climate and elevation could prove crucial to maintaining peak performance.
When asked about his planning for altitude specifically, Elliott admitted that heat was initially the main focus in his preparations, rather than the effect of higher elevation on himself and the car’s engine. Only upon further reflection did he recognize that the thinner air could impact both breathing and vehicle power output.
I thought for Mexico, the biggest thing would be the heat factor of that race. I hadn’t really thought about the elevation.
—Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
Elliott candidly acknowledged a gap in his pre-race considerations related to physiological impact caused by altitude.
I haven’t really taken that into consideration,
—Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
Despite this, he remains confident in his ongoing fitness, regularly pushing himself with various athletic activities in hot conditions to simulate racing demands. He emphasized the need for sharper focus and potentially longer pre-race preparation to meet the unfamiliar challenges.
Enhanced Commitment to Preparation for an Unfamiliar Track
Learning from past experience, Elliott mentioned that before racing in Charlotte, he extended his preparation period from the usual two or three days to four. He implied that facing the Mexico City circuit for the first time, with little prior knowledge, may warrant an even greater commitment.
Mexico City probably needs to be looked at like that, especially the first time without any knowledge of it,
—Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
His history on road courses is notable: since joining the NASCAR Cup Series full time, Elliott maintains an average finish of 8.8 across 34 road course starts and has secured seven wins. However, in recent years, Chris Buescher has slightly outperformed Elliott in the Next Gen car, posting a 7.9 average finish in 16 starts compared to Elliott’s 10.0 average since 2022.
Significance for Drivers and NASCAR’s Future Races
The Mexico City event poses a complex challenge: adapting to elevation, heat, and a track that pushes both driver ability and vehicle performance. As the NASCAR community watches Chase Elliott’s preparation for Mexico City NASCAR road course race, the strategies and results could set a precedent for competing in unfamiliar, demanding environments, potentially reshaping how drivers approach future global road courses.
