The inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race outside the United States began with a series of travel mishaps for several teams, causing delays before the event in Mexico City. Notably, Shane Van Gisbergen was ready to take off when a significant issue with the charter flight engine in North Carolina forced him and the Trackhouse Racing team to remain grounded.
These complications led to two charter flights having problems on Thursday, resulting in delays for over five teams. Fortunately, all team members arrived safely in Mexico City by Friday morning, with some teams driving to Atlanta to catch commercial flights due to the logistics failures, while others awaited a new charter.
Van Gisbergen candidly shared his concerns about the travel issues but remained focused on the race ahead. “Yes, it wasn’t very enjoyable. It was a long day,” he remarked upon arrival, referring to the early morning wake-up call. NASCAR was quick to adjust the event’s schedule to accommodate the delayed teams, rearranging track activities, and ensuring that no practice sessions were lost for the Cup series.
Additionally, Ryan Truex is set to make his return to the NASCAR Cup Series as a substitute driver for Denny Hamlin, who opted to spend time with his family following the birth of his child. This marks Truex’s first race in the Cup Series since 2014, and he’s looking forward to leveraging this opportunity for a potential return to regular racing.
The drivers will face a unique challenge racing at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, which is located at an altitude of nearly 7,500 feet, significantly higher than any other track on the circuit. To prepare, Toyota introduced a specialized training program for their drivers, simulating lower oxygen levels to help them acclimatize. This proactive approach reflects the teams’ commitment to performance and safety in the face of unusual conditions.
This race represents a significant milestone for NASCAR as it expands its presence internationally, showcasing the sport’s growing global appeal. With all necessary adjustments made, the excitement is palpable as teams and drivers gear up for this historic event.