NASCAR is preparing to do something it rarely does. A special event in Mexico will feature a major change from the way things are usually done in the United States. This change was first tested at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and now it is coming back in a bigger way. The decision connects with international racing customs, and it could shape how future races are seen. It all starts with a single weekend at a historic track.
NASCAR’s Historic Podium Celebration Decision
NASCAR’s announcement of podium celebrations for the top three finishers at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City marks a significant departure from its long-standing U.S. tradition of honoring only the race winner. For the first time in the modern era, both the NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series will feature podium ceremonies during a points-paying event. This move is designed to pay homage to the international motorsport culture at a venue renowned for hosting Formula 1 and other global racing events.
The decision reflects NASCAR’s broader strategy to expand its global footprint and appeal to new audiences. The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, named after Mexican racing legends Ricardo and Pedro Rodríguez, is a fitting setting for such a gesture. The track’s history is steeped in international motorsport pride, and the podium ceremony is a nod to the traditions familiar to fans of Formula 1 and other series that regularly compete there.
The Backstory: Why NASCAR is Breaking Tradition
NASCAR has long been known for its uniquely American approach to race celebrations, famously summed up by the phrase, “If you ain’t first, you’re last.” In U.S.-based events, only the winner is celebrated in victory lane, a tradition that underscores the sport’s winner-takes-all mentality. However, as NASCAR ventures further into international markets, it is increasingly open to adapting its customs to align with global motorsport norms.
The podium celebration at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is not entirely unprecedented—NASCAR previously used a small podium for the exhibition races at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, where the top three finishers received medals. However, this will be the first time that such a ceremony is held for a points-paying race outside the United States. The move is seen as a symbolic gesture, recognizing the heritage of the track and the expectations of an international audience.
Reactions from NASCAR Drivers and Fans
The announcement has sparked a wide range of reactions from both drivers and fans. Daniel Suárez, the only foreign-born driver to win a NASCAR title in one of the three national series and a native of Monterrey, Mexico, has been vocal in his support for the podium celebration. Suárez noted that while the idea initially seemed unusual for NASCAR, it aligns with international motorsport practices and could enhance the experience for fans in Mexico.
“Honestly, when they told me about it a while back, like six months ago at the time they were already considering it, they were not doing it,” Suárez said.
“I thought—man, it could be a good idea. If you think about it, we are pretty much the only sport that does it like this. The Olympics—everything has a podium. 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. The promoters, they know what they’re doing. They know what their audience likes.” – Daniel Suárez
Among fans, opinions are divided. Some see the podium celebration as a fun experiment that adds excitement and spectacle to the event, while others worry that it could dilute NASCAR’s unique identity. On social media, one fan commented,
“I’m fine with this, only because they don’t do this all the time (and shouldn’t). I’m fine with it only if it’s for unique events like this, definitely not every race. We shouldn’t normalize celebrating finishing 2nd or 3rd.”
Another fan noted,
“This will be a fun experiment. I have always gotten ‘if you aren’t first, you are last’ vibes from our drivers. Most aren’t happy with 2nd or 3rd place and just do their required interview. Could be even more fun if there is some hard racing and conflict. And the boys up there still yapping at each other.”
The Significance of the Venue
Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is more than just a race track; it is a symbol of Mexican motorsport pride. Named after the Rodríguez brothers, Ricardo and Pedro, who achieved legendary status in international racing, the circuit is a fitting stage for NASCAR’s international ambitions. The track has hosted Formula 1, sports car racing, and now NASCAR, making it a hub for global motorsport culture.
The podium celebration at this venue is a tribute to the track’s history and the expectations of its fans. It also serves as a bridge between NASCAR’s American roots and the broader world of motorsport. By embracing the podium tradition, NASCAR is signaling its willingness to adapt and grow as it seeks to attract new fans and expand its presence internationally.
News in Brief: NASCAR podium celebration
NASCAR is set to feature full podium celebrations for the top three finishers at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, marking its first such ceremony for a points-paying race in modern history. This move reflects NASCAR’s growing interest in international traditions and markets. Inspired by past exhibitions at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the change honors local culture and global motorsport customs. Reactions from drivers like Daniel Suárez and fans show a mix of support and caution.
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