NASCAR is gearing up for something big in 2025. For the first time in 67 years, the Cup Series will hold a points race outside the United States, heading to Mexico City. This major announcement came on Tuesday when NASCAR officials confirmed that Mexico City would be the next international destination for one of the biggest racing events in the sport.
Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s executive vice president and chief venue and racing innovation officer, shared the excitement: “This is going to be certainly a monumental event for us, the first time we’re going south of the border.” You could feel the anticipation in his words, and for good reason.
The race will take place on June 15 at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, a well-known road course in Mexico City that also hosts the Mexico City Grand Prix for Formula 1. It’s the perfect venue for NASCAR’s leap into international waters, promising a unique experience for both drivers and fans.
The event will kick off with an Xfinity race on June 14, setting the stage for the main Cup Series race the following day. The excitement isn’t just about the race itself; it’s about what this move means for NASCAR. As Kennedy pointed out, the idea of taking NASCAR beyond American borders has been in the works for a long time.
He mentioned how they’ve already tested the waters by bringing the Craftsman Truck Series to Canada for several years and hosting Xfinity Series races in Mexico. But this, he says, is different: “This is a monumental moment for our sport in the sense that this is our first step of really taking the Cup Series internationally. I think it could set us up for the future in potential new markets.”
It’s clear that NASCAR sees this as more than just one race. They’re looking to grow, to reach new fans, and to expand the sport’s footprint globally. Going international is seen as a major growth opportunity, and it seems Mexico City is just the beginning. Who knows where else NASCAR might go next?
For fans who can’t make the trip to Mexico, there’s good news too. The Cup Series race will be aired live on Prime Video, making it easy for everyone to tune in and watch history being made. The Xfinity race the day before will also be broadcast, airing on The CW, so fans won’t miss a minute of the action.
Of course, this new race in Mexico City means a bit of a shake-up back home. The Athletic reported on Monday that Richmond Raceway will lose one of its two races to make room for this international event. It’s a big change, but one that many believe is worth it for the chance to see NASCAR step onto the global stage.
This race will be the first international event for NASCAR’s top circuit since 1958 when they raced in Toronto. It’s been a long time coming, and there’s a sense that something truly historic is about to happen. As NASCAR heads to Mexico City, fans from all over will be watching, eager to see how this bold move pays off. Will it open the door to more races in new countries? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: NASCAR is ready to make its mark on the world.
