NASCAR’s Historic Return to Mexico City: A Conversation with Joey Logano

As NASCAR ventures into Mexico City this weekend, three-time Cup Series champion Joey Logano took some time to chat exclusively with Motorsport.com’s Luis Ramírez in anticipation of the event. Logano, who drives for Team Penske, has not secured a victory at a road course in nearly a decade but remains optimistic about the upcoming race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. This race introduces many uncertainties, as it’s an unfamiliar track for most drivers, and Cup cars have never raced here until now.

Embracing the Challenge of a New Track

Logano shared his thoughts on the challenges and excitement of racing at a new venue. "We’ll have to wait and see… There are a lot of unique factors and fresh experiences for all of us to navigate," he remarked. "Not only is the track new, but being in Mexico also presents a fresh experience for everyone involved. It’s remarkable to see how the entire sport has organized this. The logistics of bringing all the trucks and setups down here for the race is truly impressive."

He emphasized that the effort put in by NASCAR and the teams has been significant. "This has obviously involved a lot of hard work from everyone at NASCAR. The teams and truck drivers have contributed immensely to make this happen. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic event, and I’m excited about that. But, as you mentioned, we still need to get a grasp on the race itself."

A Historic Moment for NASCAR

In an incredible turn of events, this weekend marks the first time in 67 years that NASCAR is hosting a points-paying Cup race outside of the United States. While exhibition races were held in Japan and Australia during the 1980s and 1990s, this event could signal a significant shift in the sport’s future.

Logano expressed his thoughts on the potential for more international races. "This definitely pushes us out of our comfort zone, and stepping outside that zone often leads to growth and new opportunities. So I see this as a positive start," he stated. "I can’t predict where we’ll go from here, but if this event proves to be successful—and early indications suggest it is—then yes, we could expand to other locations."

He also noted the logistical advantages of racing in Mexico. "Mexico was a logical choice for this venture. The fans are thrilled to have us here, and we can drive our trucks here without the complexities of international transport like flying or shipping, which would complicate things significantly."

Logano’s Road Course Record

Despite his impressive career, Logano’s history with road course racing has been challenging. Out of his 37 Cup victories, only one has come from a road course, which was at Watkins Glen in 2015. This raises the question of why he has struggled to adapt to these types of races.

"That’s a great question," Logano chuckled. "If I had the answer, I would have figured it out by now. My roots are in short track oval racing, and that’s where I feel most comfortable. I’m getting more accustomed to road courses as NASCAR incorporates more of them into the schedule, but it does require a lot of different factors to align."

Weather Uncertainty Adds to the Challenge

To complicate matters further, the race weekend may bring some rain. Logano and his fellow competitors are preparing for the possibility of wet conditions, which could affect race strategies.

"Everything else is different, so why not add some rain into the mix?" Logano joked about the weather forecast. "But it should be alright. I hope it doesn’t pour. We can handle some wet conditions, but I doubt we’ll be racing in heavy rain. Fingers crossed that the weather holds up enough for just a light shower while we’re out there."

NASCAR has prepared for such scenarios by providing teams with six sets of wet-weather tires. In recent years, the league has even tested racing on damp ovals, in addition to road courses, which should help everyone adapt should the weather take an unexpected turn.

The Significance of the Event

This race in Mexico City carries more than just the excitement of a new venue; it represents a critical juncture for NASCAR. The potential for international growth is a significant step forward, and both fans and drivers alike are eager to see how this venture unfolds.

Logano’s excitement about the event is palpable, as he acknowledges the significance of the race in the broader context of NASCAR. "We’re not just racing; we’re part of something bigger," he concluded. "This event could pave the way for more international races in the future, and that’s thrilling for everyone involved."

Looking Ahead: The Future of NASCAR

As the NASCAR Cup Series continues to evolve, the implications of this race in Mexico City could resonate throughout the sport for years to come. With the potential for more events outside the United States, fans can look forward to an expanded NASCAR experience that embraces different cultures and racing styles.

Drivers like Logano are not just competitors; they are ambassadors for the sport, showcasing their talents and representing NASCAR on a global stage. The challenges they face on new tracks and in varying conditions only serve to enhance their skills and broaden their horizons.

The excitement surrounding this inaugural event in Mexico City is palpable, and fans are eager to witness the drivers tackle the unknown together. As NASCAR charts a course for the future, the possibilities are endless, and the journey is just beginning.

Conclusion

In summary, this weekend’s race in Mexico City is not just another stop on the NASCAR calendar; it’s a significant moment in the sport’s history. With Joey Logano at the forefront, the excitement and anticipation are building as drivers prepare to take on new challenges and showcase their skills on an international stage. This event could very well be the catalyst for NASCAR’s broader global expansion, setting the tone for what’s to come in the years ahead.

As fans and drivers alike look to the future, they do so with optimism and enthusiasm for what lies ahead in the world of NASCAR racing. The journey into new territories has just begun, and there’s no telling where it might lead.