Daniel Suarez holds a unique advantage as NASCAR heads to Mexico, with the series introducing a podium ceremony for the first time at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. The event, part of NASCAR’s expansion beyond U.S. borders, will feature a new celebration honoring the top three finishers, a move that reflects global motorsport traditions and spotlights Suarez’s local experience.
Familiar Ground Gives Suarez a Distinct Edge
With the race approaching in two weeks, most Cup Series drivers acknowledge their lack of direct familiarity with the track. Only a select few, such as Christopher Bell, Ryan Blaney, and Chase Elliott, have previously visited the venue. In contrast, Daniel Suarez stands out as the sole competitor with firsthand knowledge, having competed on the circuit multiple times.
As Xfinity Series vehicles make their way toward the border, anticipation builds among teams who are stepping into largely uncharted territory. This context gives Suarez, the Monterrey native, a particularly strong starting position and underscores the strategic aspect of the race as drivers prepare for new challenges at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez.
NASCAR Embraces Podium Celebration in Mexico
The upcoming event in Mexico will also introduce a substantial shift from NASCAR tradition—a dedicated podium ceremony for the top three finishers. During a recent Michigan media session, Suarez shared insights about this change and its potential implications for the sport.
“Honestly, when they told me about it a while back, like six months ago, at the time, they were already considering it, [but] they were not doing it. I thought, man, it could be a good idea,”
—Daniel Suarez, NASCAR Driver
The decision to implement a podium mirror customs in other series such as Formula One, IndyCar, and IMSA, where all top finishers are routinely celebrated. NASCAR’s practice of focusing solely on the winner has set it apart for decades. Now, stepping onto an international stage, series officials view adapting to local traditions as timely and crucial.
“Sometimes the culture can be extremely different, and I don’t hate it. I just don’t hate it because people are used to doing things a certain way,”
—Daniel Suarez, NASCAR Driver
Podium Ceremony Details and Mexican Atmosphere
According to Suarez, the podium will be placed within the stadium section of the circuit, creating a dramatic atmosphere for the event. He described the location as “super beautiful,” with 30,000 fans expected to fill the grandstands split evenly on either side of the podium. Event promoters are tasked with staging the ceremony, reflecting deep awareness of what will engage local fans the most.
NASCAR has experimented with this format before, notably at the L.A. Coliseum, providing some precedent for the shift. Yet, for many involved, Mexico’s celebration represents a more significant cultural adaptation. Suarez expressed an openness to embracing these changes as a means of respecting the host country’s traditions.
“I don’t see it as a negative. I see it as something that we have to adapt to a culture that is different to ours,”
—Daniel Suarez, NASCAR Driver
Suarez’s Perspective on Competing at Home
When questioned about how it would feel to claim a podium finish but not the victory, Suarez indicated that his emotional response would depend on the context of the race and the performance of his car.
“It all depends [on] how the race goes. It depends [on] how I use my car,”
—Daniel Suarez, NASCAR Driver
He explained that only a near-perfect run would satisfy him if he loses while in the strongest car on track. However, should he finish second in a field of faster competition, Suarez admitted such a result would feel as meaningful as a win, particularly before a home crowd in Mexico.
What the Podium Change Means for NASCAR’s Future
As NASCAR introduces the podium ceremony and local traditions at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, the move signals a broader willingness to align with international racing customs. Daniel Suarez’s home advantage and cultural insight serve as focal points for the event, setting the stage for an emotionally charged, landmark race. With heightened excitement among fans and a new approach to celebrating drivers’ achievements, the changes may pave the way for further evolution in NASCAR’s approach to global events.
