Joey Logano, the reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion, has expressed unease ahead of the sport’s first-ever points race in Mexico City this weekend. The highly anticipated event marks a significant step for NASCAR as it expands beyond its traditional U.S. venues, but logistical challenges and unfamiliar surroundings have raised concerns for the seasoned driver.
Joey Logano Highlights the Risks and Rewards of Racing in Mexico
Logano, recognized as one of NASCAR’s most accomplished competitors, arrived in Mexico amid unexpected disruptions, including two grounded planes carrying essential team personnel—one due to an engine failure on the runway. This unexpected setback underscored the complexities of hosting a Cup Series race outside the United States.
Reflecting on the challenge, Logano noted that racing in Mexico City forces drivers and teams to step outside their familiar environments.
“I hope the fans enjoy it,”
he said.
“I hope it’s a good turnout. I think there is no doubt that a lot of times when you step outside your comfort zone, it’s uncomfortable. There is risk involved. But there is also high reward for our sport by doing this – stepping out of what we typically do in America and going international.”
He called the move
“kind of a scary thing to do,”
admitting that many involved share concerns about logistics and navigating an unfamiliar setting.
“I think everyone … probably has some concerns of how are we going to get there? Where are we going to go? What do we do?”
Leaning on Local Expertise to Navigate the Unknown
As a newcomer to Mexico City, Logano acknowledged the difficulty of adjusting to a new culture and language, especially without any Spanish-speaking ability. To ease this transition, he plans to rely heavily on fellow driver Daniel Suarez, a Monterrey native, for guidance.
“I don’t know how to speak Spanish. I’m going to be hanging out with [Daniel] Suarez as much as I can. I don’t know where to go. So, the unknown factor is at an all-time high when we go there,”
Logano revealed.
The situation reflects the broader challenge NASCAR faces in expanding its footprint internationally, balancing excitement and opportunity with practical and safety considerations. The outcome of this race could influence how often and extensively NASCAR ventures beyond its traditional borders in the future.