With only four months to go until NASCAR’s grand expedition to Mexico City, the anticipation is already at a boiling point. As the first international points-paying race since 1958 draws closer, the focus is now shifting towards the thrilling motor action planned for Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. However, before the rubber hits the track, Christopher Bell, a NASCAR Cup Series star, is taking the time to savor the local flavors.
Recently, Bell, alongside fellow drivers Daniel Suarez, Chase Elliott, and Ryan Blaney, took to Mexico City in preparation for the race. The visit, which included a tour of the city and the race track, culminated in a flavorful adventure at Atarantados, one of Mexico City’s most distinguished eateries.
NASCAR shared a glimpse of this culinary escapade, where the drivers enjoyed the local delicacy – tacos. The images and videos show the racers huddled around Suarez, the local, peppering him with queries about the food. They then took satisfying bites out of their tacos, signaling their approval with hearty thumbs-ups. However, it was Christopher Bell, the Joe Gibbs Racing driver, who stole the spotlight.
Bell, seemingly mesmerized by the delicacy, took a moment to immortalize his first-ever taco experience with a photo, much to the amusement of his comrades. Suarez playfully nudged Bell, asking him if it was his first taco, to which Bell affirmed, much to everyone’s delight.
Bell’s childlike enthusiasm for his first taco is a testament to NASCAR’s longstanding relationship with the dish. Seven-time Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, who became a partner of a Charlotte taco restaurant, Southbound, in 2017, had successfully brought the taste of Mexican cuisine to Southern California. Johnson’s endeavor resonates with Bell’s excitement, reiterating NASCAR’s connection with tacos.
Bell’s innocent antics have left fans in stitches. Known for his humility and reserved demeanor, Bell is a stark contrast to his fiery on-track persona. Therefore, seeing him savoring his first taco with sheer joy was a delightful sight for the fans. NASCAR on NBC humorously commented on Bell’s food photography habit, suggesting that his phone ‘had to eat first’.
Fans also enjoyed the rare sight of four NASCAR drivers from different manufacturers sharing a meal. Suarez and Elliott represent Chevy, Blaney drives for Ford, and Bell is with Toyota. This moment of camaraderie off the track, devoid of any rivalry, has warmed many hearts in the NASCAR community.
As we edge closer to the June race, the NASCAR community eagerly awaits to witness our Cup Series stars battle it out on the Mexican race track. The recent visit has only intensified the excitement for what promises to be a thrilling showdown at Chilangolandia.
