For OCESA, this week’s visit served as a test of market demand for NASCAR, which previously raced in Mexico City with the second-tier Xfinity Series from 2005 to 2008. While tickets for this year’s Formula 1 race sold out in a single day, OCESA is in a contract year with Formula One Management, balancing F1 extension negotiations alongside the potential relaunch of NASCAR.
With these two priorities at the forefront, discussions with IndyCar about a 2026 event have been put on hold as promoters assess whether Mexico City has both the interest and financial capacity to support multiple racing series.
For NASCAR, however, this trip was an opportunity for drivers to return to the garage at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, with positive feedback. A large team from OCESA is also traveling to COTA to observe and learn the logistics of a Cup Series race weekend.
“This visit mirrors what NASCAR is all about—we always say that once you attend a race, you’ll fall in love with it,” said chief operating officer Steve O’Donnell. “That’s been my experience in Mexico City, and I think the same goes for the drivers who came down here. Seeing them smile, relax, have fun, and experience something new—I’m hopeful they’ll bring back positive messaging.”
Ryan Blaney, who promised to learn Spanish before returning in June, said he “loved every minute” of the visit and believes any hesitation about racing in Mexico City is unnecessary.
“I was never someone who worried about coming here,” Blaney said. “There’s nothing to be concerned about. The city is beautiful, the people are incredible, and we’ve had no issues.”
