NASCAR Squanders Fans’ Hope With a “Pause” on International Expansion Plans

In the midst of 2023 playoff chaos, a different kind of drama unfolded off the track. While the NASCAR community has been abuzz with rumors as it awaits the unveiling of the 2024 calendar, the most anticipated move that never materialized was the promised international expansion.

Rumors around the 2024 calendar that was an all-American affair had run rampant with dashing hopes of witnessing NASCAR on foreign soil. As fans held onto a glimmer of hope for future forays onto international soil, their dreams were swiftly squashed when the NASCAR Chief Operating Officer (COO) boldly declared a “pause” on that front.

NASCAR COO reveals how Montreal dream hit roadblock

The 2024 NASCAR calendar introduced a slew of changes, including Bristol returning to its iconic concrete surface, the Brickyard 400 reclaiming its glory on the legendary oval, Darlington taking the reins as the new regular-season finale, and the inclusion of a fresh venue on the schedule in Iowa.

However, the speculations suggested that Montreal might become the new addition, but as negotiations faltered, NASCAR had to pivot to an alternative – the 1.5-mile track in the United States.

As that dream hit a roadblock, Steve O’Donnell, the overseer of NASCAR’s global strategy, revealed, “As we continued to talk in Montreal, we probably realized a little too quick to be able to make that happen.”

In the face of this setback, NASCAR regrouped, focusing on exploring opportunities not just in the United States but also across North America and internationally.

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O’Donnell emphasized their commitment to finding the best options for the fans, stating, “For us, it was a little bit of a pause, and let’s evaluate all those opportunities together, look at what’s in the best interest of all of our fans for ’25 and beyond to make sure that we put the most exciting schedule together possible.“

International tracks remain on the to-do list for 2025 and beyond

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Meanwhile,  just a month prior to this announcement, Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s senior vice president of racing development and strategy, shed light on the organization’s international plans. As O’Donnell hinted at the pause and evaluation of international opportunities, Kennedy reiterated their commitment to international ventures.

Kennedy stated, “We still are bullish about finding our way either north of the border, whether that be in Montreal or Toronto or another market, or south of the border down into Mexico.”

These aspirations are not merely wishful thinking; they are part of a strategic vision. Kennedy’s words reflect the determination to make this a reality, with a clear focus on the years ahead: “We think it’s important for us to get outside of the United States with our series in some way, shape or form. So that’s something we’re going to keep our pulse on as we think about 2025 and beyond.”

While Montreal might have slipped through their grasp, for now, NASCAR’s ambitions remain undiminished. The 2025 season holds the promise of international expansion, reflecting the sport’s unwavering dedication to fans worldwide.

Read more: Racing Community Livid as NASCAR Bids Farewell to Daytona Amid Massive Calendar Overhaul