NASCAR thrilled fans with its groundbreaking return to international competition in 2025, but a shadow now looms over the future. Despite the excitement, the schedule may not allow for another Mexico City race anytime soon. A strong debut, a standout winner, and international enthusiasm weren’t enough to silence internal frustrations. Teams voiced concern over the timing, and now, key updates suggest that this global partnership might stall before it truly builds momentum.
Key Highlights
NASCAR returned to Mexico City in 2025 for a points race.
Shane van Gisbergen won the Viva México 250 at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez.
Teams were frustrated by the scheduling after Michigan.
2026 Mexico City sports calendar limits alternative NASCAR dates.
NASCAR now targeting a 2027 return amid growing uncertainty.
A Historic Return That Sparked Optimism
The 2025 Viva México 250 wasn’t just another race—it was a landmark. Held on June 15 at the high-altitude Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, the event marked NASCAR’s first points race outside the United States in 67 years. The track’s unique layout and setting brought an added layer of challenge, with drivers battling not just each other but the thin air and complex strategy demands.
Shane van Gisbergen led the charge, piloting the No. 88 Trackhouse Chevrolet to a dominant victory. It was his first win since 2023 and showcased his road course mastery. He crossed the line ahead of Christopher Bell and Chase Elliott, while Alex Bowman and Michael McDowell completed the top five.
The race weekend was heralded as a success, drawing large, passionate crowds that highlighted the region’s growing motorsports fanbase. From start to finish, the Viva México 250 carried the spirit of expansion and progress—a moment that many believed would be the beginning of a new chapter for the sport.
Scheduling Backlash Creates Doubt
Despite the glowing reviews from fans and media, the feedback from within NASCAR wasn’t all positive. According to reports, multiple teams and drivers were dissatisfied with the Mexico City date—specifically its placement one week after the race at Michigan International Speedway. The logistical challenge of jumping from the far north of the U.S. to central Mexico in such a short span reportedly caused tension among garage members.
This sentiment has now made its way into the sport’s future planning. As reported by The Athletic’s Jordan Bianchi, it’s becoming increasingly unlikely that NASCAR will return to Mexico City in 2026. Instead, current thinking points to a possible return in 2027, when the calendar may offer more flexibility.
2026 Looks Unworkable
The primary obstacle is the 2026 Mexico City sports calendar, which is already crowded with major events. This limits NASCAR’s options to move the race to a more logistically friendly date. NASCAR and Mexico City both remain eager to continue their partnership, but the tight scheduling makes it difficult to avoid repeating the same logistical problems that frustrated teams in 2025.
While NASCAR is actively exploring solutions, it appears that no viable date has emerged for 2026. Rather than force another difficult turnaround, leadership may choose to pause the event entirely and revisit the opportunity in 2027. This would allow time to find a more optimal date and reduce resistance from within the sport.
Global Goals on Hold?
The uncertainty surrounding Mexico City comes at a time when NASCAR is seeking to expand its international presence. The success of the 2025 race reaffirmed that there is strong interest in Cup racing beyond U.S. borders. Fans in Mexico responded with enthusiasm, and the competitive on-track product only strengthened the event’s reputation.
However, NASCAR must now balance ambition with practicality. For global races to thrive, they must also align with the logistical needs of teams and crew. The 2025 Mexico City weekend proved that the sport can go global and succeed—but also reminded everyone that even the best events need the right timing.
For now, NASCAR’s international aspirations remain intact, but Mexico City may have to wait two more years to return to the calendar.
News in Brief: NASCAR Mexico City Future Faces Roadblocks
NASCAR’s 2025 race in Mexico City at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez was a thrilling return to international competition, highlighted by Shane van Gisbergen’s victory in the Viva México 250. However, scheduling backlash from teams and the crowded 2026 Mexico City sports calendar have made a return next season unlikely. According to The Athletic’s Jordan Bianchi, NASCAR is now targeting a 2027 return. Both parties remain committed to the partnership, but logistics must improve.
ALSO READ: NASCAR Garage 66’s Underdog Story Continues at Indianapolis
