Van Gisbergen Dominates Historic NASCAR Race in Mexico City

Shane van Gisbergen once again demonstrated his mastery of new circuits by taking a commanding victory in NASCAR’s first-ever points-paying Cup Series race at the historic Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. The Kiwi driver led an impressive 60 of 100 laps, securing the win with a dominant 16.567-second margin over Christopher Bell — the largest margin of victory so far this season.

Van Gisbergen, competing full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series for the first time this year, started from pole position in his No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet. Despite facing illness on race day and travel complications that delayed the arrival of his crew, he delivered a clinical performance that secured his place in the 2025 Playoffs.

“What a week, I’ve really enjoyed myself here, but felt like rubbish this morning,’’ van Gisbergen admitted. “Our car was amazing. The 54 [Ty Gibbs] was close but that last stint, what a pleasure, just ripping lap after lap and watching them get smaller in the mirror.’’

The New Zealand driver’s triumph comes almost two years after his memorable debut win at the inaugural Chicago street race. However, van Gisbergen was quick to emphasise the differences between the two landmark victories.

“It feels completely different,” he explained. “At Chicago, no one knew who I was, and we were under the radar. This weekend, the expectation was there, so it feels like polar opposites really.”

The weekend was also highly emotional for his Trackhouse teammate and Mexico City native, Daniel Suárez, who finished 19th after briefly leading early in the race. Suárez, who won Saturday’s Xfinity Series race to rapturous support from local fans, was overwhelmed by the reception.

“I feel like today, I gave my best, but it just wasn’t good enough,’’ Suárez said. “I wish I was in the mix a little more fighting up front, but it just wasn’t in the cards today. I’m happy with the performance, I don’t feel like I left anything on the table.”

Reflecting on the event itself, Suárez added: “It couldn’t have been any better. Every single thing that we did exceeded my expectations. The fans were amazing… It is an experience I for sure won’t forget for a very very long time.”

Despite starting 31st, Christopher Bell fought his way through the field to claim second place, while Hendrick Motorsports’ Chase Elliott rounded out the podium. Alex Bowman and Michael McDowell completed the top five, with John Hunter Nemechek, Chase Briscoe, Cole Custer, points leader William Byron, and Chris Buescher filling out the top ten.

The race was not without drama off the track, as Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Carson Hocevar had a heated exchange post-race, stemming from an earlier incident at Nashville. Meanwhile, championship contender Kyle Larson saw his day end prematurely after being caught in a multi-car crash just seven laps in, significantly denting his position in the standings.

For van Gisbergen, the victory was particularly sweet given the adversity he faced throughout the weekend. Struck down by illness shortly after qualifying, he spent race day battling severe stomach discomfort.

“I have no idea [how I got sick]. I’ve been so careful… yesterday after qualifying I just went really downhill and couldn’t keep anything in,” he revealed. “The first stint I was feeling pretty average. I was like, this is going to be a long race.”

Nevertheless, his crew’s meticulous preparation and a strategic approach helped him overcome the challenges, even as concerns about tyre pressure and mechanical issues surfaced during the race.

“At one point I thought something wasn’t tightened properly,” van Gisbergen admitted. “I just asked for reassurance… after a few laps, the tyres came up to pressure and we were okay.”

The 36-year-old driver also credited advice from reigning Formula One world champion and friend Max Verstappen, who provided insights into the unique characteristics of the Mexican circuit.

“I reached out to him, was the grip on line, off line, what kind of techniques did he use,” van Gisbergen said. “He didn’t say too much, but it’s always good to get a little leg up.”

While the win guarantees van Gisbergen a playoff berth, he remains focused on improving his oval racing performance as he adapts to NASCAR’s diverse calendar.

“My average oval running position has gone from 85th to 10th to 15th on a good day,” he said. “We’re really making a lot of progress.”

With NASCAR yet to confirm a return to Mexico City for future seasons, van Gisbergen was unequivocal in his support for the event.

“I’d love to come back. It’s always cool going to different places… everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. The racing was cool.”

Following the win, van Gisbergen promised a modest celebration. “I’m going to mix some Red Bulls with some adult beverages,” he joked.

The NASCAR Cup Series now returns to the United States for the Great American Getaway 400 next Sunday, with Ryan Blaney set to defend his 2024 victory.

Article Source: NASCAR

Image Credits: 
Chris Graythen/Getty Images - Via NASCAR MEDIA
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