NASCAR’s Mexico City event this weekend marks the series’ first international Next-Gen race, arriving during heightened political tensions in the United States impacting the Latino community, especially following recent ICE raids. Bubba Wallace, 23XI Racing’s star driver, spoke on these issues and highlighted Bubba Wallace on NASCAR support for Latino community during a recent media session.
NASCAR’s Push for Greater Inclusivity
NASCAR’s decision to bring its premier Cup Series event to Mexico City places a spotlight on diversity and outreach at a time of unrest for many Latino fans in the USA. Bubba Wallace, who has frequently addressed political and social topics in his career, took the opportunity to emphasize how much the sport has changed in recent years to better include and celebrate underrepresented groups. He shared that his focus had been on racing and family lately, rather than on outside politics, but still addressed the evolving culture within the racing community.
“Yeah, so, to be honest with you, I haven’t paid attention to the outside world and the news and stuff like that. I think for us and the image that we have been trying to portray as a sport, at least, for the last five years, when everything was kind of flipped on its head, was making this [sport] inclusive for all. Making it special for everyone to attend our sport and to have fun…”
—Bubba Wallace, Driver, at Mexico City media session (Frontstretch on YouTube)
Wallace’s remarks point to an intentional long-term effort by NASCAR to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their background. The league’s shift has been apparent in policy, culture, and public messaging, acknowledging the importance of making races safe and enjoyable for all fans, participants, and their families. This mission seems especially urgent given the challenges and unrest many Latino individuals are currently facing in the U.S.
Daniel Suárez’s Role in NASCAR’s Mexico Effort
Bubba Wallace spoke with admiration about fellow driver Daniel Suárez, the Mexican-born Trackhouse Racing competitor who is deeply invested in the success of this historic event. Suárez has worked closely with NASCAR to ensure the Mexico City race is meaningful, both for local fans and visitors from abroad. His dual role as both a driver and cultural ambassador strengthens the league’s connection to the Latino community.
“And like I mentioned earlier, I couldn’t be prouder and more excited for [Daniel] Suárez and understanding that he’s put in a lot of work with NASCAR to make this all happen and to make it special for all of us.”
—Bubba Wallace
Suárez’s involvement goes beyond competing; he has helped shape the experience to reflect both Mexican heritage and the inclusive vision NASCAR hopes to project worldwide. Wallace’s praise acknowledges not only Suárez’s work but also the collaboration required between athlete and organization to achieve real progress.
Wallace further highlighted how crucial it is for the racing environment to feel secure, respectful, and open. He credited both Suárez and NASCAR’s leadership for these improvements, which have positively affected drivers, fans, and families involved in the event.
“And to see NASCAR support his decisions and needs and wants to make sure everybody is safe. Not just the drivers, but fans and family and friends, all of this. Everybody is safe, and they feel important just as much as the drivers do. I think a lot of credit goes for Suárez, but a lot of credit goes for NASCAR for supporting those actions.”
—Bubba Wallace
Creating a safe space for all attendees, from track personnel to fans, allows competitors like Wallace and Suárez to focus on the race, knowing their supporters are valued and protected. This inclusive approach is part of a broader effort to shift perceptions and practices in the traditionally American-dominated sport.
Wallace Focuses on Experience Over Results in Mexico
Amidst the anticipation around this road course event and his recent improvements as a racer, Wallace revealed that he carries no specific expectations into the Mexico City race. The adjusted schedule means attending alone, as family responsibilities and promotional commitments keep him especially busy this weekend.
“I think just taking it all in. I have no expectations. It’s just going to be me; the family is not going. I have a couple of appearances there early in the week, so to get down there and see and officially say I’ve been to Mexico. And (eating) good food.”
—Bubba Wallace
The new road course venue introduces unique challenges for all drivers, and Wallace’s comments suggest a focus on securing a strong, steady finish rather than risking everything for a victory. Many drivers are entering the event with similar outlooks, aware that the shift from traditional NASCAR tracks to this international location changes the approach required, both on and off the course.
Reflecting the uncertainty of this extended experiment, Wallace notes that the ultimate outcome in terms of race performance is secondary to the broader achievement of participating in a ground-breaking event. For many, including fellow competitors, a solid points finish and an incident-free race would satisfy their goals.
The Road Ahead for NASCAR and Its Diverse Communities
NASCAR’s expansion into Mexico City, celebrated by both drivers and fans, stands as a test of the organization’s dedication to inclusivity, particularly during politically charged times affecting the Latino community. The involvement of figures such as Bubba Wallace and Daniel Suárez is central to shaping the sport’s image as welcoming and representative of modern American diversity.
As NASCAR’s leadership and participants continue developing their outreach, support for the Latino community and other marginalized groups is expected to remain in focus. The results of this international effort, both on the track and among fans, are likely to influence how the sport is perceived and supported in years to come, setting the tone for future events aiming to unite rather than divide.
