Kyle Larson of Hendrick Motorsports addressed the media ahead of the NASCAR Cup Series qualifying at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. In his comments, he emphasized the importance of closely observing the Xfinity race to understand officiating and track dynamics for their Sunday showdown.
Larson mentioned that he plans to pay attention to various aspects such as cornering, passing, and the specifics of pit road entry. He expressed confidence in the preparations, noting that while he encountered some concerns during a previous walk around the track, the overall setup felt satisfactory once on the track.
Having experience in international racing, Larson compared this weekend’s atmosphere to events in Australia, pointing out that the logistical aspects differ but the racing vibe is largely the same. The elevation presented new challenges for drivers. Larson felt comfortable in the car but acknowledged that the altitude does affect downforce and overall handling.
With rain potentially affecting tomorrow’s race, Larson shared mixed feelings about wet conditions. While he prefers dry weather, he also recognized that unfamiliar conditions can provide opportunities for those able to handle the challenges effectively.
Regarding the unique track layout, Larson identified a lack of downforce as the primary difficulty, particularly affecting brake zones. He noted the community feel of the event, with drivers mingling more than usual due to shared accommodations unlike the typical NASCAR weekend format.
When asked about potential new practices for NASCAR, Larson suggested evaluating elements such as driver introductions and podium celebrations, which he feels enhance fan engagement. He mentioned the possibility of adopting practices from other motorsports, hinting at the success of previous podium events and the appreciation shown by fans.
Overall, Larson’s keen observations and experience shine through his insights as he prepares for this unique racing experience in Mexico City. The camaraderie among drivers and the mixed challenges ahead offer a refreshing take on the racing culture, promising an exciting event for both competitors and fans alike.