NASCAR is set to make history this weekend with the first-ever Cup Series points race in Mexico City, marking a major milestone in the sport’s push to expand its global reach. The event, dubbed the Viva México 250, will take place on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at the iconic Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, a road course in the heart of Mexico’s capital.
This race marks the first time since 1958 that a NASCAR Cup Series points event will be held outside the United States. It’s part of NASCAR’s broader effort to grow the sport internationally, tapping into new markets and building fan bases in regions where stock car racing hasn’t traditionally been a major draw.
The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is no stranger to motorsports, regularly hosting Formula 1 and other international events. For the NASCAR Cup Series, the 2.429-mile, 15-turn road course presents unique challenges. The track’s high elevation—around 7,500 feet above sea level—will push both drivers and machines to their limits. Teams have had to account for thinner air, which affects both engine performance and driver conditioning. Some crews have even set up tents at altitude to help their members acclimate ahead of race day.
The Viva México 250 will feature 100 laps, divided into three stages: Stage 1 ends at Lap 20, Stage 2 at Lap 65, and the race concludes at Lap 100. The format stays consistent with other Cup Series road races, but the historic and geographic context makes this one especially significant.
NASCAR’s decision to race in Mexico City is no surprise. The metro area is home to over 20 million people, offering a massive audience and new commercial opportunities. The sport has already seen growing interest in Mexico, thanks in part to the success of the NASCAR México Series and the presence of Mexican-American drivers like Daniel Suárez, who will be a fan favorite this weekend.
The logistics of moving the Cup Series across the border are staggering. NASCAR has coordinated the shipment of race cars, haulers, pit equipment, and staff through a combination of air and ground transport. Contingency plans are in place for emergency vehicle recovery, medical support, and cross-border customs processes.
In the U.S., the race will be broadcast exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, marking another shift as NASCAR experiments with streaming services for major events. Adam Alexander, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Steve Letarte will call the race, giving fans expert insights into this groundbreaking race.
While the racing world watches how teams handle the technical and strategic challenges of the track, NASCAR is closely observing how the Mexican fanbase responds. If the Viva México 250 proves successful, it could open the door to more international Cup Series events in the near future, perhaps in Canada, Europe, or beyond.
As engines roar to life in Mexico City, NASCAR is signaling a bold new era—one where the checkered flag could wave anywhere in the world.
Be the first to comment