The NASCAR world is buzzing with whispers of potential change. According to rumors, NASCAR’s Mexico City Race Weekend might be facing the axe, despite the organization’s longstanding plans of expansion into the international racing circuit. This news comes after NASCAR’s successful mission to revive old tracks, such as the Bowman Gray Stadium, a move that was well-received by fans, with packed grandstands echoing the thrill of racing.
The Mexico race has been on the agenda for a while now, NASCAR making the official announcement in August 2024. Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s executive vice president, had conveyed the organization’s vision of international growth at that time. “International is always one of the first things that comes up when we discuss our biggest growth opportunities as a sport,” Kennedy had stated. Given this ambitious vision, the question arises – why the sudden backtrack?
Although NASCAR has not confirmed the cancellation, the rumor mill is churning with speculation about the possible discontinuation of the Mexico City Race Weekend, scheduled for June 15th at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. This road course is a familiar name in the Formula One schedule, making it a significant venue for NASCAR’s international foray. NASCAR’s official website still lists the race on its schedule, but a popular rumor page, known for its accuracy in predicting such matters, suggests otherwise.
A recent post from the Instagram page ‘nascarrumornostalgia’ reads, “Late night wild rumor post. The rumor is spreading quick that NASCAR may not be going to Mexico this year. Instead, we could see more racing on the Daytona Road Course that weekend.” This post has sparked heated discussions among fans, with many expressing disappointment and suggesting alternatives such as Road America or Watkins Glen.
The reasons behind this rumored change remain unclear, although some speculate it could be due to current US-Mexico international relations. Just last week, NASCAR drivers including Christopher Bell, Daniel Suárez, Ryan Blaney, and Chase Elliott were seen promoting the June race in Mexico City. In particular, the potential cancellation would strike a blow to Daniel Suárez, for whom the Mexico race holds personal significance.
Suárez, in his excitement during the initial announcement, had said, “This, for me, is like a dream come true. Ten years ago, I was here racing NASCAR Mexico, and I remember thinking what a dream it would be to race the NASCAR Cup Series one day in my country.” The Trackhouse Racing driver, known for his passion for the sport, was visibly elated during the recent promotional events, sharing his culture with fellow drivers and looking forward to showcasing his skills on his home track.
Suárez’s anticipation for the race was not just personal but also professional, as he viewed the Mexico race as his golden ticket into the playoffs. The cancellation, if confirmed, would not only disappoint Suárez but also the entire NASCAR community, as it represents a missed opportunity to attract more international talent to the sport.
The rumor, while unconfirmed, has certainly stirred the pot in the NASCAR community. Fans eagerly await an official announcement to clear the air. In the meantime, the speculation continues – if not Mexico, then where? What are your thoughts on this potential change? Were you as excited as Suárez for the Mexico City race? Let us know in the comments below.
