NASCAR fans looking for the latest on Shane van Gisbergen NASCAR Mexico City race update will note a surprise change ahead of the big weekend at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. Although van Gisbergen was originally slated for both Cup and Xfinity Series races in Mexico City, new developments confirm he will only compete in one event, as Daniel Suarez is set to fill his spot for Jr Motorsports in the Xfinity lineup.
SVG’s Path from Supercars Star to American Racing Contender
Shane van Gisbergen, often referred to by his initials SVG, shot to prominence in American racing following an impressive NASCAR debut at the 2023 Chicago Street Race. The three-time Australian Supercars champion is now driving the #88 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 under Trackhouse Racing’s banner in the Cup Series, demonstrating his adaptability and road course skill. Making moves in his first Cup Series season, van Gisbergen continues to attract attention for his technique and competitive drive.
Change in Plans: Suarez Steps in for the Xfinity Series
Initial plans indicated that van Gisbergen would compete in four road course races for Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Jr Motorsports Xfinity program, with the Mexico City event among them. However, a recent shift in strategy by the team has led to Trackhouse teammate Daniel Suarez, a Mexico native, taking the wheel of JRM’s #9 Chevrolet for the Xfinity Series race. Local support played a significant role in the decision, as fans in Mexico look forward to cheering on a homegrown favorite.
Despite van Gisbergen’s vast international motorsports experience, he continues to familiarize himself with the nuances of NASCAR’s unique racing style and competition. Meanwhile, Daniel Suarez, viewed as a national hero and seasoned NASCAR competitor, shared his enthusiasm for representing Mexico on home soil after being announced as SVG’s replacement.
“Mexico has been loving motorsports for a very long time, and I feel like, slowly, that has also changed into NASCAR,”
said Suarez.
“NASCAR is a very important sport for Mexico, and it continues to grow with the NASCAR Mexico Series and now the Cup and Xfinity Series going there. It’s going to be a big deal.”
—Daniel Suarez, NASCAR Driver
Anticipation Builds for Major NASCAR Weekend in Mexico City
The upcoming Cup and Xfinity Series races are scheduled for June 14 and 15 at Mexico City’s renowned Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. NASCAR’s expanding presence in Mexico underscores the sport’s commitment to international growth, with the event being broadcast live on the CW Network, Motor Racing Network, and SiriusXM. Fans are eager to see how both Cup and Xfinity drivers adapt to the challenging road course and what twists might emerge during the weekend.
SVG Reflects on Trackhouse Team Performance and Challenges
While adjusting to NASCAR’s unique demands, van Gisbergen also provided insight into the performance dynamics at Trackhouse Racing. He praised his colleagues for their dedication and touched on the current obstacles facing both himself and the team during qualifying and race execution.
“I think he’s the top guy here, and Daniel’s pretty close as well, like everyone’s pushing really hard, they’re race-winning drivers. Then we’re qualifying mid 20s and in the 30s every week. So you know, and still qualifying, we’re not great,”
van Gisbergen said. —Shane van Gisbergen, NASCAR Driver
He pointed out areas for improvement, specifically in qualifying performance and tire management. These adjustments, he believes, are essential for better finishes in upcoming races.
“It was a real struggle like I think I was fifth or sixth on the average lap. That’s pretty good. But, qualifying, we just can’t switch the tire off. So yeah, we need to work on that,”
he added. —Shane van Gisbergen, NASCAR Driver
Van Gisbergen most recently achieved his strongest oval track result, finishing 14th in the Cup Series. Looking ahead, the team has its sights set on Nashville Superspeedway for the next race, eager to build on their progress and address the qualifying hurdles spotlighted by SVG.
Looking Ahead: Implications for Teams and Drivers
The decision to have Daniel Suarez join the Xfinity field at his home circuit instead of Shane van Gisbergen marks a strategic move for Jr Motorsports and Trackhouse Racing. This choice not only strengthens the local connection with Mexican fans but also allows van Gisbergen to concentrate on overcoming challenges in his rookie Cup season. As NASCAR continues to broaden its global reach, these storylines add excitement and anticipation to a pivotal weekend in Mexico City—one that will showcase both established stars and rising talents adjusting to new competition and evolving expectations.
