NASCAR Cup Series: McDowell Leads First Practice in Mexico City
In a historic inaugural practice session at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, Michael McDowell of Spire Motorsports clocked the fastest lap at 92.657 mph during the opening practice for the NASCAR Cup Series in Mexico City. McDowell completed 19 laps within the 50-minute session.
Chase Briscoe followed closely in second with a speed of 92.547 mph, while Ty Gibbs secured third at 92.542 mph. Rounding out the top five were Austin Cindric (92.528 mph) and Kyle Larson (92.427 mph). Other notable performances included Chris Buescher in sixth, Joey Logano in seventh, and Ross Chastain in eighth. Local favorite Daniel Suarez finished 12th.
While multiple drivers experienced minor mishaps, including missed corners and spins, two notable incidents occurred. Carson Hocevar slid off track in Turn 11, sustaining damage to his Chevrolet, while Noah Gragson hit the wall in Turn 4, damaging his Ford.
A total of 37 teams are entered for the Mexican event, with Katherine Legge representing the sole Open entry in her Live Fast Motorsports Chevrolet.
The Cup Series will hold a second practice session at 5:30 p.m. ET today as teams continue to adapt to the unique challenges of the new circuit.
