Background on NASCAR and its Mexican Visit
The NASCAR Cup Series, a prominent motorsport organization with a 76-year history rooted in the United States, recently made its debut at Mexico’s Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez during the Father’s Day weekend. However, the series’ continued presence in Mexico is currently under evaluation and negotiation.
NASCAR’s Contractual Situation
Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s Senior Vice President of Race Development and Strategy, addressed the situation to El Economista: “I cannot disclose contract details. We had a multi-year agreement with an option to extend, but we will make a decision in one or two months.”
Comparison with Formula 1’s Mexican Commitment
While NASCAR is still deliberating, Formula 1 has recently renewed its contract with Mexico until 2028. This extension builds on their presence since 2015, creating a stark contrast to NASCAR’s ongoing uncertainty.
Pilot Reactions
NASCAR drivers, including neozelandés Shane Van Gisbergen of Trackhouse Racing, expressed surprise at the lack of confirmation for the upcoming year. Van Gisbergen questioned, “Isn’t it still not fixed for next year?” during a post-race conference attended by approximately 40,000 spectators.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Is NASCAR Cup Series confirmed to return to Mexico next year? A: No, the decision is still pending and will be made in one or two months.
- Q: What is the current contractual status of NASCAR’s visit to Mexico? A: There was a multi-year agreement with an option to extend, but the final decision is yet to be announced.
- Q: How does NASCAR’s situation in Mexico compare to Formula 1’s commitment? A: Formula 1 has recently renewed its contract with Mexico until 2028, while NASCAR is still in the process of evaluating its continued presence.
- Q: What were the reactions of NASCAR drivers to the ongoing negotiations? A: Drivers, including Shane Van Gisbergen, expressed surprise and a desire for confirmation regarding the series’ return to Mexico next year.
