Ryan Truex Takes the Wheel for Denny Hamlin at Mexico City Cup Race
In a significant shake-up for the NASCAR Cup Series, Ryan Truex steps in to drive the #11 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, following Denny Hamlin’s decision to forgo the race to be with family after the birth of his son. Truex faces a formidable challenge, making his first Cup start in over a decade and navigating a road course for the first time in the current generation of cars.
Hamlin has piloted the #11 car to three victories this season, including the last race at Michigan. However, Truex’s limited Cup experience—only 26 races from 2013 to 2014 with no finishes higher than 20th—raises questions about his competitiveness this weekend.
Truex expressed mixed emotions about the opportunity, saying, “It’s been a crazy few weeks…I’m just grateful for the experience and grateful to be here.” With about 90 minutes of practice, considerably more than typically allotted, he aims to make the most of this rare chance.
The 31-year-old driver has primarily competed in the Xfinity Series recently, securing three wins with Joe Gibbs Racing. Reflecting on his past Cup experience, Truex admitted, “My last time in Cup was not a fun experience…it didn’t go well for me.” He has since focused on balancing part-time racing and personal time, which has improved his outlook.
Preparing for the race, Truex noted that adjustments are necessary for the car set up for Hamlin. “The pedals are a little far away, so they are going to have to move those," he explained, emphasizing the car’s necessity for a proper fit, particularly on a road course where precise handling is crucial.
Truex carries a legacy into this event; his brother, Martin Truex Jr., won the first Xfinity race at this venue in 2005. "I texted him this week…he said Truex’s are one-for-one in Mexico, so no pressure," said Ryan, highlighting the support and expectations from his family.
As Truex prepares for this unprecedented opportunity, the motorsports community will be watching closely to see how he adapts and competes in this high-stakes environment.
