23XI Racing driver Bubba Wallace spoke out ahead of the Viva Mexico 250 at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, the first NASCAR point-paying race outside the United States since 1958. With the event scheduled for June 15, Wallace emphasized the importance of NASCAR’s inclusivity in light of recent immigration raids affecting many Latino communities.
During a pre-race media session, Wallace was questioned about his message to Latino fans amid reports showing a dramatic rise in detentions of immigrants without criminal records, increasing more than eightfold from January to June, according to US ICE statistics reported by NDTV. His response reaffirmed NASCAR’s commitment to welcoming all fans and participants.
“I think for us and the image that we have been trying to portray as a sport, at least for the last five years, when everything kind of flipped on its head is making this inclusive for all, making it special for everyone to attend our sport, to have fun and cheer on the favorite driver.”
The race will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video starting at 3 pm ET, with additional audio coverage available via MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, allowing fans from across the globe to follow the historic event.
Support and Excitement Grows Around NASCAR’s Latino Drivers and Fans
Wallace also expressed admiration for fellow driver Daniel Suárez, highlighting Suárez’s efforts to represent and uplift the Latino community within NASCAR. He praised NASCAR’s active role in supporting Suárez’s initiatives, recognizing the importance of safety and inclusivity within the sport.
“I couldn’t be more proud and excited for (Daniel) Suarez, and understanding that he has put in a lot of work with NASCAR to make this all happen and make it special for all of us. And to see NASCAR support his decisions and needs and wants to make sure that everybody is safe,”
Heading into the Viva Mexico 250, Bubba Wallace sits 10th in the driver standings with 383 points, having achieved three top-five finishes and six top-10s so far this season. As NASCAR’s audience diversifies, Wallace’s leadership and message resonate strongly with fans from various backgrounds.
Lessons from the Past Inspire Bubba Wallace’s Growth on Road Courses
Reflecting on his journey to improve as a driver, Wallace shared an influential moment from 2018 at Sonoma Raceway. He recalled words of encouragement from former NASCAR Cup Series driver Kasey Kahne, who reassured him that his progress on road courses would come suddenly and naturally.
“I had qualified next to last or something and he walks up and he says, ‘You know, I was in the same boat once and all of a sudden just clicked.’ And I think he’s won a couple road course races. He was like ‘You don’t know what it is and all of a sudden just clicks.’ And so I feel like we’re in that transition period where it’s clicking.”
Wallace’s recent performances back up this sentiment, as he has achieved a top-five finish at Michigan and two additional top-10 results at Nashville and North Wilkesboro Speedway. Despite fierce competition among full-time Cup Series drivers in 2025, Wallace’s steady improvement suggests he is nearing his breakthrough win.
The Significance of NASCAR’s Expanding Reach and Inclusive Vision
The Viva Mexico 250 marks a pivotal moment for NASCAR, as the series embraces its first race outside the United States in decades. Bubba Wallace’s commitment to fostering inclusivity amid challenging social climates highlights the sport’s evolving character. By reaching out to Latino fans and supporting diverse drivers like Daniel Suárez, NASCAR is positioning itself as a welcoming environment for everyone.
This event not only showcases NASCAR’s competitive spirit on a global stage but also reinforces the message that the sport is open and accessible, regardless of background or heritage. As the season progresses, Wallace’s role as an ambassador for inclusion continues to inspire both fans and fellow drivers, promising a future where NASCAR reflects a broader spectrum of voices and identities.
