The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez gave fans and drivers something unforgettable. For the first time in 67 years, a NASCAR points-paying race took place outside the United States—and by all measures, it delivered. The grandstands in Mexico City were packed. The roar of engines met an even louder roar from energized supporters waving flags, chanting names, and embracing stock car racing like old pros. But despite the historic moment, there’s one catch: the future of this event is still up in the air.
Key Highlights
NASCAR’s Cup debut in Mexico City was hailed as a historic moment with record fan enthusiasm.
Ben Kennedy says a return is possible but schedule logistics and off-week constraints create obstacles.
Shane van Gisbergen dominated on track but praised the electric energy of passionate Mexican fans.
Local hero Daniel Suárez drew major crowds throughout the weekend, igniting national pride and excitement.
Ticket pricing complaints and travel issues remain challenges despite glowing driver reviews and fan turnout.
Ben Kennedy Praises Mexico Success, But Stops Short of Commitment
Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s executive vice president of racing innovation, played a key role in bringing this race to life. In the wake of Shane van Gisbergen‘s dominating win, Kennedy called the weekend a “strategic move” for growing NASCAR’s global presence. He praised the fan turnout—90% of attendees were from Mexico, with 44% from Mexico City—and described the energy as unforgettable.
But Kennedy also admitted there’s no guarantee the Cup Series will return in 2026. While NASCAR has a multi-year agreement with promoter OCESA, the 2026 calendar is still being pieced together.
“There are a lot of dominoes that need to fall. Our hope is for this to be a mainstay on the schedule.” – Ben Kennedy
One major hurdle? Logistics. Sandwiched between Michigan and Pocono races, the Mexico weekend created travel and scheduling issues. Kennedy floated the idea of surrounding the event with off weeks in the future, but also stressed how rare those breaks are in the NASCAR season.
Drivers Electrified by Fans, Energy, and Culture
Even if NASCAR’s leadership is cautious, the drivers are all-in.
Shane van Gisbergen, who led 60 of 100 laps, called the crowd “incredible” and said the weekend’s atmosphere rivaled any event on the calendar. “It was a privilege to win the first Cup race here,” he said.
Christopher Bell, runner-up, shared that sentiment. “The fans really made it special. I hope we come back again soon.” Bell, like others, couldn’t stop talking about the electricity in the grandstands—even with gray skies and rain trying to dampen the mood.
Third-place finisher Chase Elliott put it best:
“The fans were awesome. I think everyone enjoyed themselves. It was great to see so many people come out to support us.” – Chase Elliott
Even those outside the podium left impressed. Michael McDowell, who finished fifth, called the race “one of the coolest experiences of my career.”
Suárez, Wallace, and Gilliland Felt the Impact Firsthand
No one felt the impact of this race more than Daniel Suárez. Though he didn’t win, his return home was a centerpiece of the weekend. His face was everywhere—on signs, merchandise, and fan selfies. His presence brought an undeniable local pride to the event. In the Xfinity Series race the day before, he gave them even more to cheer for—winning from the back of the field.
Bubba Wallace, known for connecting with fans, made time to sign autographs and pose for pictures. He called it a weekend that could “help grow the sport in ways that matter.” That sense of purpose was echoed by Todd Gilliland, who admitted the crowd helped him stay focused and motivated.
From open paddock events to driver introductions met with thunderous applause, the weekend was filled with moments that proved NASCAR can thrive outside its usual footprint.
Challenges Remain: Ticket Prices and Travel Concerns
Despite the celebration, not everything went smoothly. One reporter brought up a concern that many fans wanted to attend but found the ticket prices too high. Kennedy acknowledged the concern but clarified that NASCAR did not set the pricing—that was handled by OCESA. He promised the issue would be reviewed moving forward.
Then there’s the question of travel. The event, years in the making, required a massive effort. Kennedy hinted that for this to work long-term, it might require reshuffling the Cup Series calendar entirely—a tricky task given the series’ already packed schedule.
Still, he left the door open for Mexico’s return. “We’re very hopeful,” he said. “We just want to huddle internally.”
News In Brief: Will NASCAR Return to Mexico City in 2026
The Viva Mexico 250 did more than make history. It showed the world that NASCAR Cup Series racing has a place beyond U.S. borders. From the grandstands to the garages, Mexico City made a loud statement—it’s ready, willing, and passionate about the sport.
But now, it’s up to NASCAR to decide whether this historic moment becomes a one-off or the beginning of something bigger. The decision will come in a matter of months. Until then, one thing is certain: Mexico made its case, and the racing world heard it loud and clear.
ALSO READ: Viva Mexico 250 Full Results: NASCAR’s International Debut Ends with a Global Twist
