Daniel Suárez is set to make a triumphant return to his native Mexico as NASCAR gears up for its first points-paying Cup Series race outside the United States. This historic event will take place at the iconic Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, where Suárez will compete in both the Xfinity Series and the Cup Series.

A Homecoming for Suárez

For Suárez, this race is more than just another event on the calendar. It's a homecoming that marks a significant milestone in his career. "It's very special," Suárez told ESPN. "Honestly, it's very difficult to put into perspective for people. Only those who really know me very well understand how important and special this is for me."

Suárez's journey to NASCAR stardom is a tale of perseverance and determination. Hailing from a family with no racing background or financial means, Suárez faced numerous challenges early in his career. At 17, he was on the verge of quitting racing due to a lack of funding. However, a major sponsor stepped in, enabling him to move to the United States and pursue his dreams despite not speaking English.

Breaking Barriers

Suárez's transition to the U.S. was anything but smooth. He initially stayed on a friend's couch in Buffalo, New York, and continued to split his time between racing in Mexico and the U.S. Eventually, he settled in Charlotte, North Carolina, and caught the attention of Joe Gibbs Racing. In 2014, he was given a shot in the Xfinity Series, and by 2016, he had become a champion. Today, Suárez is a two-time winner in the Cup Series and drives the No. 99 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing.

A Global Vision

Suárez's return to Mexico is not just a personal milestone but also a significant moment for NASCAR. The sport has a growing international presence, with series in Canada, Europe, Brazil, and Mexico. The NASCAR Mexico Series will join the Cup and Xfinity series this weekend, marking a new chapter in the sport's global expansion.

"The reason I have zero doubt is because maybe I have a different perspective than most people and maybe most drivers here in the United States," Suárez said. "I know for a fact how popular this sport is, and I know that people will get crazy in Mexico. And I know if one day we race in Brazil and Argentina, it would be a huge success."

The Future of NASCAR

As NASCAR continues to explore new markets, Suárez remains optimistic about the sport's global potential. "The way I see it, the sky's the limit," he said. "I think that NASCAR has done a tremendous job for over 75 years in the United States, and they have done a few things here and there internationally, but I think it's a great time to explore new boundaries."

This weekend's race in Mexico City is more than just a competition; it's a celebration of Suárez's journey and NASCAR's evolving identity as a global sport. With thousands of fans expected to cheer on their homegrown hero, the event promises to be a historic moment in motorsports history.