Kyle Busch may have a unique edge at the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series race in Mexico City, where his past triumph at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez could play a key role. As the series heads to this iconic international circuit, Busch is looking to leverage his experience at the venue in hopes of ending his notable winless streak, bringing major attention to the question of his advantage at the NASCAR Mexico City race.
Busch’s Recent Challenges and the Race Ahead
The NASCAR Cup Series journey to Mexico City comes at a pivotal moment for Kyle Busch, who has not captured a victory in more than 70 starts—a surprise for a two-time champion famed for finding the winner’s circle every season until 2023. Despite a hopeful start from the front row last weekend in Michigan, Busch ultimately crossed the finish line in eighth place, extending his unusual dry spell.
As the series prepares to compete at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, Busch stands out among the current drivers. While his last Cup Series victory series feels distant, his familiarity with the Mexican track might set him apart when the green flag drops.
Kyle Busch’s History at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez
Unlike most of his competitors, Kyle Busch has previously raced—and won—at this legendary Mexico City circuit. The venue hosted the Xfinity Series from 2005 to 2008, and in 2008, Busch started sixth and took command to lead 22 laps, ultimately winning the event. Other well-known drivers such as Denny Hamlin, Martin Truex Jr., and Juan Pablo Montoya also claimed victories at the track during those years. Busch has ensured that his achievement stays fresh in people’s minds, especially as NASCAR prepares for its first-ever Cup Series points race outside the United States.
“I know y’all remember the last time we raced in Mexico.😏.”
—Kyle Busch, Driver
That 2008 win is a source of pride for Busch, renewing interest in how his past success might shape his performance as the series enters uncharted territory.
The Unpredictable Nature of This Race
This international Cup Series debut carries extra weight due to several unique challenges. Few active Cup drivers have any experience at this high-altitude (7,500 feet) circuit, which levels the playing field and adds an element of unpredictability. In addition to Busch and Hamlin, Brad Keselowski has previously competed at the track in the Xfinity Series, while Daniel Suarez, racing in his home country, brings the perspective of his time in NASCAR Mexico. Michael McDowell, too, boasts a sports car win at the venue from 2005.
Despite these backgrounds, none of today’s Cup entrants have raced here in the series’ next-gen cars, making this a new adventure for everyone involved. The circuit’s mix of oval and road course layouts adds further complexity, ensuring no one enters with a full blueprint for success.
What’s at Stake as Busch Seeks Redemption
While past victories may offer Busch a degree of comfort and confidence, the dynamics of this year’s race guarantee fresh challenges, not only from the unfamiliar machinery but also from veteran rivals like Hamlin, Keselowski, McDowell, and home favorite Suarez. The pressure is on for Busch, driving for Richard Childress Racing, to capitalize on his experience and possibly break free from his slump before the end of the Cup Series season.
Fans and competitors alike recognize that the upcoming Mexico City race could mark a turning point. If Busch manages to use his background at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez to his favor, it could spark a major comeback for the veteran driver, reshape the season’s narrative, and cement his reputation for thriving under pressure on racing’s biggest stages.
