Mexico GP Promoter Confirms Discussions with IndyCar for Potential 2026 Race

The Mexico GP promoter is in discussions with IndyCar about a potential race in 2026, driven by Pato O’Ward’s popularity. This follows an upcoming NASCAR event at the same venue, marking a significant year for motorsport in Mexico.

The Mexico Grand Prix promoter has confirmed ongoing discussions with IndyCar regarding a possible race in 2026. Alejandro Soberón, president of CIE, noted that these talks are mainly fueled by the rise in popularity of IndyCar, particularly due to the achievements of Pato O’Ward, a talented Mexican driver competing for Arrow McLaren. This potential revival of IndyCar in Mexico follows the announcement that NASCAR will hold a race at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez on June 14-15, 2024. This marks a significant milestone as it will be NASCAR’s first points-paying Cup Series event in Mexico City, following previous Xfinity Series races held at the venue from 2005 to 2008. Though IndyCar has not raced in Mexico since 2007, the growing excitement surrounding motorsport events in the country, alongside O’Ward’s success — including his recent close call at the Indianapolis 500 — enhances the likelihood of IndyCar’s return. As Soberón stated, “We have set up conversations with IndyCar in January to think about 2026. Of course, Pato is a big factor in all that.”

The discussion of IndyCar’s return to Mexico has gained traction recently, following the announcement of a NASCAR event at the same venue. The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez has a rich history with different racing formats, and the prospect of IndyCar returning indicates a broader interest in motorsports within the country. Pato O’Ward’s rise in IndyCar has drawn attention to the potential market for this series in Mexico, where motorsport enthusiasm is on the rise, especially among fans of talented local drivers.

In summary, the Mexico GP promoter, Alejandro Soberón, has opened discussions with IndyCar for a possible race in 2026, spurred by the excitement surrounding motorsport in Mexico, particularly due to the success of local driver Pato O’Ward. The recent announcement of a NASCAR event at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez adds to the momentum, suggesting a promising future for IndyCar’s return in the vibrant Mexican motorsport scene.

Original Source: www.autosport.com