NASCAR Cup Series Holds First Practice Sessions in Mexico City

The NASCAR Cup Series held its first practice sessions at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, marking the first time Cup cars ran on this 2.42-mile road course. Michael McDowell of Spire Motorsports led the opening 50-minute session with a lap averaging 92.657 mph, followed closely by Joe Gibbs Racing teammates Chase Briscoe and Ty Gibbs. In the final, shorter practice, Todd Gilliland from Front Row Motorsports posted the fastest lap at 93.181 mph, with Ross Chastain and Ty Gibbs rounding out the top three. Several drivers, including Noah Gragson, encountered challenges on the circuit, with Gragson crashing and requiring a backup car for the race. The sessions highlighted the learning curve for drivers adapting to the new track, particularly at the tricky Turn 4. Qualifying was scheduled for the following day to continue preparations for the upcoming race.