NASCAR is gearing up for a historic showdown as the Cup Series makes its long-awaited debut south of the U.S. border—live from Mexico City on June 15, 2025. Dubbed the Viva México 250, the race is set to electrify fans worldwide as the first points-paying Cup event outside the United States in decades. With the spotlight shining on the vibrant heart of Mexico, this event is brimming with international energy, cultural pride, and high-stakes performance drama.
The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez offers a spectacular backdrop for this momentous race. The 2.429-mile, 15-turn road course sits at a lofty 7,500 feet above sea level—making it the highest-altitude track on the Cup circuit. Drivers will navigate a blend of sweeping straights and technical corners, including the famed “stadium section,” where the roar of passionate Mexican fans reverberates with every lap. Originally opened in 1959 and named in honor of legendary racers Ricardo and Pedro Rodríguez, the venue combines historic prestige with modern upgrades—having hosted several Formula 1 Grands Prix since a major renovation in 2015.
NASCAR’s history in Mexico runs deep. The Autódromo hosted four Xfinity Series races between 2005 and 2008, with Cup stars like Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin, and Martin Truex Jr. claiming victories on the course. Meanwhile, the NASCAR México Series has thrived locally since 2004, nurturing homegrown talent—most notably Daniel Suárez, who triumphed here in the mid‑2010s before ascending to the Cup level. Expect Suárez’s local fandom to light up the crowd as he chases glory on familiar terrain.
Anticipation is through the roof. NASCAR executives are calling this the most exciting moment of the 2025 schedule, and for good reason. This weekend isn’t just about racing—it’s a cultural celebration. It kicks off with The Chilango 150 (Xfinity) on June 14, followed by the Viva México 250 for the Cup Series on June 15. Prime Video will broadcast the Cup clash live, with an all-star team of announcers calling the action from the booth. Fans can expect fireworks on track and in the grandstands as the Cup Series stakes its claim on the global stage—and if Mexico City’s legendary passion is any judge, this race could be one of the most memorable of the season.
NASCAR in Mexico City Weekend Schedule
Friday June 13
11:00 am NASCAR Mexico Series Practice and Qualifying
1:30 pm NASCR Mexico Series Ricardo Rodriguez 120, Streaming: YouTube; Radio: MRN
4:05 pm NASCAR Cup Series Practice, Streaming: Amazon Prime; Radio: MRN, SiriusXM
5:30 pm NASCAR Cup Series Practice, Streaming: Amazon Prime; Radio: MRN, SiriusXM
Saturday June 14
11:05 am NASCAR Xfinity Series Practice, Streaming: CW App
12:10 am NASCAR Xfinity Series Qualifying, Streaming: CW App Pole: Connor Zilisch, Starting Lineup
2:05 pm NASCAR Cup Series Qualifying, Streaming: Amazon Prime; Radio: MRN, SiriusXM Pole: Shane Van Gisbergen, Starting Lineup
4:30 pm NASCAR Xfinity Series The Chilango 150, TV/Streaming: CW; Radio: MRN, SiriusXM
7:00 pm NASCAR Mexico Pedro Rodriguez 100, Streaming: YouTube; Radio: MRN
Sunday June 15
3:00 pm NASCAR Cup Series Viva Mexico 250, Streaming: Amazon Prime, MAX; Radio: MRN, SiriusXM
Weather
There is cause for concern for racing this weekend. While the nature of Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez as a road course makes racing likely, it could be a wet affair. Rain chances are solid all weekend and into the week with Sunday having the highest chance at 65%. Temperatures are expected to be in the mid-70s.
