NASCAR will hold its first international points event outside the U.S. since 1958 at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City in June 2024. COO Steve O’Donnell discussed expanding into Southern California, potential international races involving Saudi Arabia, Europe, and Asia, and the impact of local feedback on future events in cities like Chicago.
NASCAR is set to race outside the United States for the first time since 1958, with a points-paying event in Mexico City on June 14-15, alongside the Xfinity Series at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. This milestone comes after two years of effort to expand NASCAR’s reach, considering venues in Canada as well.
Additionally, NASCAR’s partnership with Chicago will enter its third year, featuring downtown street races near Grant Park. Both initiatives aim to grow the sport internationally. NASCAR COO Steve O’Donnell stated there is interest in exploring more street races globally.
NASCAR has intentions to return to Southern California, where they have previously held events at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Future plans for the Auto Club Speedway involve transforming it from a superspeedway to a short track, although no progress has been reported.
O’Donnell also mentioned Saudi Arabia’s interest in NASCAR, among others from Asia and Europe. He emphasized that any new international ventures will consider the cultural context and include grassroots efforts to promote the sport.
The upcoming return of historic tracks like North Wilkesboro and Rockingham into the racing calendar is part of this grassroots focus. The event in Chicago, slated for 2025, has prompted significant debate among local officials, with perceptions suggesting this may be the final event iteration there.
Looking towards 2025, O’Donnell acknowledged the investments made in Chicago, totaling between $40-$50 million. Despite challenges during the first few years due to weather and logistical considerations, NASCAR plans to utilize lessons learned to enhance the event’s success moving forward.
Original Source: sportsnaut.com
