NASACAR Announces Historic Mexico City Cup Race for 2025
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NASCAR has officially declared its intent to host a Cup Series race at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City for the 2025 season. This move marks a significant milestone in the series’ ongoing international expansion efforts, as it will be the first points-paying race outside of the United States in over 25 years. The last such event occurred in 1958.
Logistical Challenges
The logistical demands are substantial, with approximately 80 haulers set to traverse over 2,000 miles from Michigan International Speedway to the new venue. NASCAR’s International Series has previously raced outside the U.S., including events in Canada and Japan, but this is a pivotal return to international competition.
Prior to the announcement of the Mexico City race, NASCAR had explored potential events at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal and expressed interest in expanding into Brazil.
Daniel Suarez’s Impact
Daniel Suarez, the first Mexican driver to win a national championship in NASCAR, is positioned as a key figure for the series’ aspirations in Mexico. "This is an amazing opportunity for NASCAR," Suarez remarked, emphasizing the potential to engage Mexican fans and drivers alike.
NASCAR’s International History
The series’ past international ventures include:
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1952: The inaugural Cup race outside the U.S. at Stamford Park, Canada, where Buddy Sherman triumphed amidst significant attrition; only three of 17 starters completed the race.
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1958: Lee Petty won the Jim Mideon 500 at Exhibition Stadium in Toronto, which also marked Richard Petty’s debut in NASCAR.
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1988: A non-points race at Calder Park in Australia, where Neil Bonnett secured victory, paving the way for a NASCAR Australia division.
- 1996 & 1997: Exhibition races at Suzuka Circuit in Japan, featuring notable wins by Rusty Wallace and Mike Skinner.
Despite these historical events, NASCAR has not held a points race outside the U.S. since the late-1990s.
The Path Forward
As NASCAR gears up for its Mexico City race, there is ample optimism regarding the expansion of stock car racing internationally. This venture could pave the way for future events and greater global outreach, potentially revitalizing interest in the sport across various regions.
The Mexico City race promises to be a landmark event for NASCAR, ushering in a new chapter in the sport’s storied history.
