Ross Chastain recently offered strategic guidance to young Mexican racers aiming to carve out a future in NASCAR. Speaking ahead of an event in Mexico City, the Trackhouse Racing driver emphasized the importance of starting with grassroots racing, especially in local karting competitions. Chastain expressed enthusiasm for the Go Kart Mania series in Mexico City, describing it as an excellent entry point for aspiring drivers.

Chastain, currently one of the top drivers in the sport, shared that he personally enjoys racing in karting formats and envisions his children participating there as well. His advice centered on the notion that racers should begin wherever possible and progress step by step.

“As a driver you just have to start racing, whatever level you can afford. Everybody has a different path. There’s no right or wrong way to do this. There’s multi-generation families that are racing that Daniel and I are racing against. There’s guys like Daniel and I that our dads liked racing and helped us get going and worked to make money so they could spend on go-karts for Daniel, Pro Trucks for me, late models, asphalt late models in the States. Whatever you can race, keep moving up. If you are successful, if you can win, keep moving up. Be around older racers,” Chastain elaborated.

Beyond the driving path, Chastain highlighted opportunities within NASCAR’s technical and public relations sides, mentioning that scholarships may be available to those wishing to join teams in non-driving roles. He urged aspiring professionals to be proactive by introducing themselves to team members in the garage, which can open doors even if the initial step seems intimidating.

Chastain acknowledged that relocating to the United States to pursue a career in NASCAR may be daunting, but encouraged hopeful individuals to take risks despite the possibility of rejection, reinforcing that persistence is essential.

Daniel Suarez Highlights Opportunities and Connections for Mexican Aspirants

Following Chastain’s remarks, his teammate Daniel Suarez shared his perspective, drawing from his personal journey as a former NASCAR Mexico Series driver who successfully advanced to compete at the Cup Series level. Suarez stressed the advantage of NASCAR holding races in Mexico, describing it as a valuable chance for aspiring Mexicans to gain experience and build connections.

“Right now we are racing in a stage that is different than 90% of the races that we do, so in my mind this is a great opportunity for the Mexico Series and, just like Ross mentioned, drivers, mechanics, engineers, pit crew members, everything to hopefully, for those that really want to exceed Mexico and go to the United States, trying to build some connections somehow,” Suarez said.

Suarez recalled that when he first moved to the United States, many of his mechanics from Mexico hoped to accompany him, but he lacked the necessary contacts to support their transition at that time. Reflecting on his growth since then, he now feels positioned to assist others who are in similar circumstances.

He emphasized that the upcoming NASCAR event in Mexico is crucial for boosting diversity in the sport and increasing the presence of Mexican professionals. Suarez expressed hope that this event would inspire many individuals dreaming of working within NASCAR in the United States to pursue their ambitions.

Building a Foundation for the Future of Mexican Talent in NASCAR

The advice shared by Ross Chastain and Daniel Suarez underscores the multifaceted approach needed for aspiring NASCAR Mexicans to succeed in the sport. Both drivers emphasize the importance of starting young, gaining experience across different racing levels, and leveraging available opportunities to build professional relationships. This dual insight from race veterans serves to motivate and guide the next generation of Mexicans aiming to enter NASCAR’s competitive environment.

With ongoing efforts to hold NASCAR events closer to Mexico and the growing involvement of Mexican talent in various roles, the pathway for aspiring racers and team members is gradually becoming more accessible. The combination of grassroots participation, networking within teams, and perseverance in overcoming challenges offers hopeful prospects for expanding NASCAR’s diversity and welcoming fresh Mexican talent into the US racing scene.