The NASCAR Cup Series made history in June 2025, hosting its first-ever points-paying race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. Dubbed the Viva Mexico 250, the event marked a major moment in the sport’s expansion—and by all accounts, it was a resounding success. The grandstands were full, the fans were energized, and the racing didn’t disappoint. With passionate supporters waving flags, cheering each pit stop, and creating a festive environment all weekend, the race offered a glimpse of NASCAR’s global potential.
A Weekend to Remember: Fans Bring the Energy
From the drop of the green flag, it was clear this race was different. Thousands of fans filled the grandstands under gray, rainy skies, refusing to let the weather dampen their enthusiasm. Flags of different teams waved in unison with chants echoing through the circuit’s stadium-style corners. NASCAR may have been new to Mexico as a Cup Series event, but the crowd embraced the spectacle like longtime veterans of the sport.
Social media exploded with videos of fans dancing in the aisles, proudly displaying handmade signs and cheering for local favorite Daniel Suárez. Though Suárez didn’t reach the podium, his presence was a source of pride, and his supporters were among the loudest all weekend. The event had a festival-like vibe, blending the pageantry of NASCAR with the rich motorsports culture already ingrained in Mexico through Formula 1, the World Endurance Championship, and more.
Driver introductions were met with thunderous applause, and as the race unfolded—with changing weather conditions and strategic gambles—the fans hung on every lap. Whether it was pit strategy, a daring overtake, or a slip in the wet, the crowd remained vocal and engaged, setting the tone for what could become a staple on the NASCAR calendar.
Drivers React to Unforgettable Experience
Winner Shane van Gisbergen captured his second career Cup Series victory in dominant fashion, leading 60 of the race’s 100 laps. But beyond the trophy, it was the atmosphere that stuck with him. “The fans here are incredible,” he said post-race. “They love racing, and you could feel it all weekend. It was a privilege to win the first Cup race here.”
Van Gisbergen praised both the circuit layout and the cultural experience, calling the weekend “awesome” and saying the event had an energy he hadn’t felt anywhere else on the NASCAR calendar.
Christopher Bell, who finished runner-up, echoed those thoughts. “It was a tough race, but the atmosphere was amazing,” Bell said. “The fans really made it special, and I hope we come back here again soon.” Bell’s performance solidified his position near the top of the standings, but even more than his result, he was blown away by the environment around him.
Third-place finisher Chase Elliott also heaped praise on the event. “I was super excited about having tires at the end, and it was a lot of fun out there,” he said.
“But more than that, the fans were awesome. I think everyone enjoyed themselves, and it was great to see so many people come out to support us.” – Chase Elliott
Even drivers who didn’t contend for the win left with fond memories. Michael McDowell, who finished fifth, called the weekend “one of the coolest experiences of my career,” adding, “This could be the start of something big for NASCAR in Mexico.”
A Strong Statement for NASCAR’s International Future
Off the track, drivers made the most of their time connecting with the local audience. Bubba Wallace, Todd Gilliland, and others spent time signing autographs, posing for selfies, and chatting with fans throughout the paddock and at special events. Wallace, known for his approachability and connection with fans, embraced the opportunity to expand NASCAR’s reach.
“It was really cool to see how many people were here just to enjoy the race. These kinds of weekends help grow the sport in ways that matter.” – Bubba Wallace
Gilliland, who impressed with his pace during practice, was equally thrilled. “Hopefully I can just keep it between the walls and on the blacktop,” he joked, “but we had good speed and the fans kept us motivated.” The young driver’s strong showings in practice highlighted how road courses like this one can shake up the traditional power balance in the Cup Series.
YA’ll SHOWED UP ❤️🇲🇽 pic.twitter.com/pkbdvlpXX0
— Front Row Motorsports (@Team_FRM) June 15, 2025
The Viva Mexico 250 also presented on-track challenges with rain bringing early cautions and testing pit strategies. Yet, the tricky weather only added to the unpredictability that kept fans on edge from start to finish. The mix of wet and dry conditions forced teams to adapt, a storyline that played well in a country used to dramatic motorsport weekends.
Importantly, the successful event also showcased the potential of NASCAR’s global outreach strategy. Jeff Gordon, who gave the command to start engines, called it “a turning point” and emphasized NASCAR’s desire to keep pushing into new markets. With positive feedback pouring in from fans, drivers, and media alike, the groundwork is now laid for future visits to Mexico—and potentially beyond.
News in Brief: What NASCAR Drivers Said About Racing in Mexico
NASCAR’s first race in Mexico City wasn’t just a historic milestone—it was a celebration of culture, community, and competitive racing. From the roar of the engines to the roar of the crowd, the Viva Mexico 250 made a lasting impression on everyone involved. Drivers praised the event, fans created memories, and the sport as a whole took a confident step toward international growth. As NASCAR looks to the future, one thing is clear: Mexico is ready for more.
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