NASCAR driver Ross Chastain revealed the challenges he faced during his recent visit to Mexico City, admitting he felt physically drained and unprepared for the trip, especially when it came to language. Chastain openly stated he did not attempt to learn Spanish beforehand, which added to his discomfort while attending media events in the city.
The footage of Chastain was first posted by CBS Sports NASCAR reporter Steven Taranto on X, showing the driver during a press session while fellow racer Daniel Suárez answered questions in Spanish. Chastain appeared visibly tired as he waited nearby, revealing his struggle to keep up with the pace and intensity of the experience.
Regarding his language preparation, Chastain stated,
“I am honest with everybody, I didn’t even try.”
He further detailed his physical state, sharing,
“I don’t feel very good, I’ll be honest,”
“I have a headache… I just had to run slower at a higher heart rate than normal… I feel tired, I haven’t done a whole lot. I am ready for bed right now.”
During this media interaction, Chastain even joked about ending the day, referencing a treat he and Suárez had tried earlier. When Suárez asked if he wanted a Chamoy Frosty, Chastain declined, preferring a Baconator instead, showing a touch of humor despite his exhaustion.
Chastain Advocates for Greater Recognition of Podium Positions in NASCAR
In an interview with NASCAR insider Dustin Long before the Mexico City race weekend, Ross Chastain expressed his support for honoring not just the winners but also the drivers who finish second and third. This weekend’s event will feature a full podium celebration for the top three finishers in both the Cup and Xfinity Series.
Chastain believes the current focus predominantly on winners often minimizes the difficulty and significance of finishing closely behind. Reflecting on this, he said,
“I love it. I’ve always been a little disappointed that we don’t celebrate second and third more because it means so much… when you do it repeatedly, it can feel like it’s a letdown, but yes, we all want to win.”
He emphasized that NASCAR has unintentionally neglected drivers who consistently finish near the top, explaining,
“Running top three in the Cup Series is so challenging,”
“I think we should have always celebrated it more.”
Chastain’s Career and Upcoming Race in Mexico City
Ross Chastain, driving the #1 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Trackhouse Racing, has built a strong NASCAR career with 13 overall victories, including six in the Cup Series. His latest win came at Charlotte Motor Speedway earlier this season. The upcoming Cup Series race in Mexico City on June 15 marks an important event in his schedule as he aims to build on his recent successes.
This trip to Mexico City, though taxing, highlights both the physical demands drivers face and the challenges of adapting to an international setting, emphasizing the human side of professional racing beyond the track. Chastain’s candid remarks shine a light on the toll such events can take and the importance of broader recognition for competitive achievements in NASCAR.
