During his visit to Mexico City this week, NASCAR Cup driver Ross Chastain offered heartfelt guidance to those hoping to break into auto racing, highlighting the determination needed to overcome challenges. Addressing a local audience and reflecting on his own path, Chastain delivered focused advice for aspiring Mexican racers, urging them to seize every opportunity and begin wherever possible.
Chastain, traveling in a city buzzing with over 22 million people and a vibrant racing culture, voiced his admiration for the local scene, from grassroots tracks to enthusiastic fans. He referenced Daniel Suárez, a celebrated Cup Series driver from Monterrey, who recently won the Xfinity Series race. When asked to advise residents interested in motorsport careers, Chastain spoke directly about embracing what’s available locally and being persistent in their pursuits.
Getting Started in Motorsports with Limited Resources
Recognizing that many families in Mexico face economic hardship, Chastain emphasized that entering racing is not always straightforward. He drew on his background as a member of a Florida watermelon farming family, explaining that, even for him, reaching the Cup Series required significant sacrifice from both himself and his family—much like Daniel Suárez and his father‘s journey. The latter, known in Monterrey for restoring vintage Volkswagen Beetles, helped finance Suárez’s early racing dreams.
Chastain did not shy away from acknowledging the cost barriers to motorsport, even at the go-kart level. However, he stressed that talent can create new paths, pointing to examples such as Hendrick Motorsports driver William Byron, who transitioned from online racing simulations to professional competition after showcasing his skills.
“Right here in Mexico City, you better be going to the go-kart track in the mall (‘Go Kart Mania’),”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
“We were there last night. That place is awesome. I would be ripping laps there. I would have my kids there.”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
The Value of Taking Initiative and Persisting
Adaptability was a core message from Chastain, who highlighted how each racer’s path is unique and can begin at any level they can afford. His advice stressed involvement and perseverance, regardless of background, and underscored that there is no universally correct way to enter the sport.
“As a driver, you just have to start racing, whatever level you can afford,”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
“There’s guys like Daniel and I, that our dads liked racing and helped us get going and worked to make money so they could spend on go-karts for Daniel, Pro Trucks for me, late models, asphalt late models in the (United) States.”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
He advised aspiring racers to gradually move up through different ranks as their skills develop. Being around more experienced drivers, he said, also plays a crucial role in learning and making progress in the sport.
“Whatever you can race, keep moving up,”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
“If you are successful, if you can win, keep moving up. Be around older racers.”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
Opportunities for Future Engineers, PR Specialists, and Mechanics
Chastain extended his guidance beyond drivers, describing pathways for those interested in PR, engineering, or mechanical roles within motorsports. He pointed out that professional qualifications and academic degrees open doors in technical and communications roles, emphasizing the importance of scholarships for those who may not have financial means. In mechanical fields, he noted that hands-on skill or formal education are both viable routes—what matters is the willingness to excel and meet demanding team expectations.
Leveraging the NASCAR Mexico Series for Experience
For residents looking for a way into racing, Chastain urged involvement in the NASCAR Mexico Series to gain firsthand knowledge and skills applicable at higher levels like the Cup, Xfinity, or Truck Series. He described practical steps such as networking, meeting team members at events, and persistently offering to help with anything necessary.
“You miss every shot you don’t take,”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
He encouraged boldness in introducing oneself to potential mentors, handing out contact information, and actively seeking advice on joining a team or submitting a résumé.
“Okay, they say no, we don’t have a spot. Okay, find the next ones — find the guys in the clean shirts and introduce yourself. You have a business card. Write your name and number on a piece of paper. Ask how to submit a résumé. What would it take (to get a chance)?”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
The Importance of Risk-Taking and Resilience
Chastain highlighted Daniel Suárez’s story as an example for those committed to reaching the top. Suárez moved from Monterrey to the United States with minimal resources and no English skills, yet made connections and found opportunities with the support of friends and determination. Chastain acknowledged the challenges and fears that come with relocating and stepping into the unknown but stressed the importance of resilience and finding value even when facing setbacks.
“It’s going to take moving to the States to work in NASCAR,”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
“It’s (the prospect of moving to a new country and learning a new language is) scary, I get it, I know. We’ve been there, but go ask, and if they say no, you’ve got a cool story to tell when you’re drinking beer.”
—Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Driver
Ross Chastain’s passionate and practical advice, rooted in his own background and that of fellow driver Daniel Suárez, offers a motivating path for aspiring racers and motorsport professionals in Mexico. His counsel highlights the value of grit, networking, and a willingness to “take every shot,” whether starting at a local go-kart track, seeking educational opportunities, or aiming to join a team in the highly competitive world of NASCAR.
