The Mexico GP promoter has confirmed discussions with IndyCar regarding a potential return to Mexico in 2026. This follows NASCAR’s announcement of a race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in June 2024, marking its first points-paying event in Mexico City. The interest is fueled by the rising popularity of Mexican driver Pato O’Ward, who adds significant appeal to the IndyCar series. Alejandro Soberón emphasized, “Pato is a big factor in all that” as conversations with IndyCar progress.
The promoter of the Mexico GP has confirmed ongoing discussions with IndyCar regarding a potential race in 2026. The excitement surrounding IndyCar’s return to Mexico is heightened by the recent interest in Pato O’Ward, a talented Mexican driver who competes for Arrow McLaren. The discussions follow NASCAR’s announcement of a scheduled race in Mexico City in June 2024, marking the first points-paying Cup Series event in the city. Alejandro Soberón, the president of the Mexico City GP promoter CIE, stated that the presence of O’Ward in the IndyCar series serves as a pivotal factor in the ongoing discussions. Soberón mentioned, “We have set up conversations with IndyCar in January to think about 2026. Of course, Pato is a big factor in all that.” With the increased interest in motorsport from the region and a strong local driver to rally fans around, the stage might be set for IndyCar’s return after a prolonged absence since 2007.
IndyCar has not held a race in Mexico since the Champ Car era ended in 2007, making a potential return in 2026 especially significant. The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, the same venue hosting the Formula 1 Mexican Grand Prix, is set to welcome NASCAR in June 2024, igniting discussions about IndyCar’s involvement as well. The rising popularity of native driver Pato O’Ward, who has garnered attention for his impressive performance and fan engagement, further supports the case for IndyCar’s reintegration into the Mexican motorsport scene. These developments suggest a thriving motorsports culture that could benefit from the inclusion of multiple racing series.
The prospect of IndyCar returning to Mexico in 2026 represents a significant development in the country’s motorsport landscape, particularly with the rising profile of Pato O’Ward. Conversations led by Alejandro Soberón are laying the groundwork for this potential race, coinciding with NASCAR’s anticipated debut in Mexico City. As interest in motorsports continues to transcend borders, the possibility of IndyCar’s revival offers exciting opportunities for fans and participants alike.
Original Source: www.autosport.com
