NASCAR's first international Cup Series race of the modern era was a cultural experience that brought new fans to the series and provided its competitors with a chance to enjoy a new country.

Shane van Gisbergen led a race-high and career-best 60 laps and decimated the field in NASCAR's historic Cup Series race in Mexico City.

Shane van Gisbergen won the pole for the Viva Mexico 250 in qualifying on Saturday, setting the fastest time (92.776, 93.904 mph) in a session that was cut short by rain. Van Gisbergen's pole is his first of the season and the second of his Cup career.