Jeff Gordon to command NASCAR Mexico City race as he steps into the ceremonial role for the historic Viva México 250, which marks NASCAR’s first-ever points-paying Cup Series event outside the United States. The race is scheduled to take place at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City this Sunday, drawing excitement for both the track’s adjusted layout and Gordon’s participation.
Gordon Chosen as Official Commander for Mexico City Event
Details surrounding the upcoming event have been emerging quickly, with the recent revelation about a subtly modified track layout at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. Among the most notable announcements is that NASCAR Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon will serve as the official commander, delivering the iconic call for drivers to start their engines. NASCAR México made the announcement on their social channels, confirming Gordon’s prominent role in this landmark race.
¡@JeffGordonWeb será el Official Commander de la Viva México 250! 🛞 🏁
El expiloto miembro del NASCAR Hall Of Fame dará la orden oficial del “Drivers, start your engines” este domingo.
Te contamos más sobre esta noticia: https://t.co/yMoSDCeKc6#NASCARMexico #NASCARMexicoCity pic.twitter.com/QahGU1Mvv0
— NASCAR México (@NASCARMexico_) June 12, 2025
Gordon, now Vice President at Hendrick Motorsports, will give the traditional command ahead of one of 2025’s most highly anticipated races. His selection highlights his continued impact on the sport as both a decorated driver and influential figure.
Jeff Gordon’s Contributions to NASCAR History
Celebrated for his extensive career accomplishments, Gordon’s 93 victories place him third among all Cup Series drivers for total wins. His championship titles in 1995, 1997, 1998, and 2001, along with three Daytona 500 triumphs, have solidified his place among the elite competitors in NASCAR history.
Gordon, once a standout from Northern California, became known for his versatility and helped push NASCAR into mainstream American sports culture throughout the 1990s. Over 23 years of competition, he built a reputation as a committed ambassador and was widely recognized for his adaptability, particularly on road courses. Notably, Gordon holds the NASCAR record for most consecutive seasons with a pole position, achieving this feat for 23 straight years.
His prominence has been acknowledged repeatedly, with Gordon being featured on NASCAR’s lists of the 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998 and the 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023. His influence goes beyond NASCAR; in 2017, he became the first Cup Series champion to win the prestigious 24 Hours of Daytona outright, joining a select group who have captured both that title and the Daytona 500.
The Significance of the Viva México 250 for Fans and the Sport
As anticipation builds for this Sunday’s event, fans will not only witness the Cup Series’ inaugural competition outside the U.S. but also see Jeff Gordon to command NASCAR Mexico City race—a moment underscoring NASCAR’s international expansion and highlighting the enduring legacy of one of its legendary figures. NASCAR Cup Series teams are preparing to compete on the renowned Mexico City circuit, with start time set for 3 p.m. ET and coverage available on Amazon Prime.
The selection of Jeff Gordon as commander for this milestone event reflects NASCAR’s ongoing recognition of its history and its desire to create compelling moments for both new and long-time supporters. As excitement continues to grow, this race promises to be both a historic and emotionally resonant milestone for NASCAR and motorsports enthusiasts alike.
