NASCAR Makes History with the First Cup Series Race in Mexico City

The excitement surrounding the NASCAR Cup Series has reached new heights as Round 16 of the 2025 season heads to a groundbreaking venue: the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. This marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first points-paying Cup race held outside of the United States since 1958. With a rich history and a passionate fan base, Mexico City is set to embrace the roar of engines and the thrill of competition in a way that hasn’t been seen in decades.

Current Standings and Recent Winners

As the NASCAR Cup Series progresses, William Byron of Hendrick Motorsports is currently leading the regular season standings. He holds a comfortable 41-point lead over his teammate Kyle Larson. Denny Hamlin, who recently secured victory at Michigan, is among the notable contenders in the field. Hamlin has experience racing in Mexico City, having participated in the Xfinity Series events held there from 2005 to 2008, making him one of the few active Cup drivers with prior experience on this track.

Exciting News and Developments

This week has been particularly thrilling for NASCAR fans, as Ram officially announced its return to the NASCAR Truck Series. This decision has sparked enthusiasm among fans and competitors alike, signaling a new chapter for the brand within the sport. Additionally, NASCAR officials have hinted that they are "very close" to introducing a fifth manufacturer, although discussions are still in progress. This potential expansion could further diversify the competition and enhance the excitement of NASCAR events.

In another noteworthy announcement, it was revealed that the upcoming Xfinity race in Mexico City will feature three drivers hailing from Mexico. Daniel Suarez, who has made a name for himself in the Cup Series, will be joined by 2024 ARCA champion Andres Perez De Lara and 2020 NASCAR Mexico Series champion Ruben Rovelo. This will be a significant moment for these drivers, especially as they make their debut in a high-stakes environment like the Xfinity Series.

NASCAR Weekend Schedule at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez

The schedule for the NASCAR weekend at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is packed with events that promise to deliver thrilling racing action for fans. Here’s a breakdown of the tentative schedule:

Friday, June 13th

• 1:05 PM EST: NASCAR Cup Series Practice #1 (Available on PRIME VIDEO)
• 2:05 PM EST: NASCAR Xfinity Practice #1 (Available on THE CW APP)
• 3:00 PM EST: NASCAR Cup Series Practice #2 (Available on PRIME VIDEO)
• 3:30 PM EST: NASCAR Xfinity Practice #2 (Available on THE CW APP)
• 4:30 PM EST: NASCAR Mexico Series Race #1 (50 laps, available on YOUTUBE)

Saturday, June 14th

• 10:30 AM EST: NASCAR Xfinity Series Qualifying (Available on THE CW APP)
• 12:00 PM EST: NASCAR Cup Series Qualifying (Available on PRIME VIDEO)
• 1:45 PM EST: NASCAR Mexico Series Race #2 (50 laps, available on YOUTUBE)
• 4:30 PM EST: NASCAR Xfinity Series Race (65 laps, available on THE CW)

Sunday, June 15th

• 3:00 PM EST: NASCAR Cup Series Race (100 laps, available on PRIME VIDEO)

How to Watch the NASCAR Cup Series in Mexico

For fans eager to catch the NASCAR Cup Series action in Mexico, the race is set for Sunday, June 15th, with the broadcast starting at 3:00 PM ET. The race will consist of three stages, with a total of 267 laps, and the green flag is expected to wave at approximately 3:23 PM EST. Viewers can tune in via PRIME VIDEO, TSN in Canada, and other international viewing options. Additionally, fans can enjoy in-car camera coverage on MAX and listen to the race on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Drivers Competing in the Viva Mexico 250

The excitement of the Viva Mexico 250 is palpable, as 37 entries are confirmed for the Cup race, including one open entry. Katherine Legge will be behind the wheel of the No. 78 Live Fast Motorsports Chevrolet, marking her second Cup start of the year following her debut at Phoenix. The lineup features a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, all eager to make their mark in this historic race.

NASCAR Cup Mexico City Entry List

Here’s a closer look at some of the drivers who will be competing in the race:

This diverse lineup showcases the depth of talent in the NASCAR Cup Series, ensuring that fans will be treated to an exhilarating race filled with intense competition and strategic maneuvering.

As the NASCAR Cup Series makes its historic debut at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, the anticipation is building. Fans from all over are eager to witness the thrilling spectacle as their favorite drivers take on this unique track. With the sound of engines roaring and the excitement of the crowd, this race promises to be a landmark event in the history of NASCAR.