NASCAR’s decision to include a Mexico City Cup race in the 2025 season is a significant move in their global expansion strategy. The logistics involved, such as transporting 80 haulers over 2,000 miles from Michigan International Speedway to Mexico City, make it a massive undertaking.
This marks the first time in over 25 years that the Cup Series will race outside the U.S., with the last points-paying championship event held outside the country dating back to 1958.
While Mexico City was chosen, options like Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, Canada, and an expansion into Brazil were also on the table. Daniel Suarez, the 2016 NASCAR Xfinity Series champion, stands out as one of NASCAR’s top international drivers with wins across all three national divisions.
There have been only a few international drivers who have triumphed at NASCAR’s top level, and the number of international races in NASCAR history remains limited. Notable international tracks where NASCAR has raced include Stamford Park in Niagara Falls, Canada (1952), Exhibition Stadium in Toronto, Canada (1958), and Calder Park Thunderdome in Melbourne, Australia (1988).
