INDIANAPOLIS — Lucas Oil, the leader in high-performance lubricants and a longtime partner of Richard Childress Racing, will brandish its iconic blue livery as the primary sponsor for RCR’s No. 8 Chevrolet in Sunday’s Viva México 250 at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City.
This highly anticipated race marks the first points-paying NASCAR Cup Series race held outside the United States since 1958, showcasing NASCAR’s commitment to expanding its international presence.
At 7,350 feet above sea level, the 2.674-mile circuit places extraordinary strain on engines, cooling systems and lubricants, robbing naturally aspirated Cup engines of up to a quarter of their horsepower, while pushing fluid temperatures higher than teams typically see at other tracks.
“We’re always excited to push the envelope with Kyle and RCR, and Mexico City presents an ultimate test of endurance and performance, which is exactly the kind of challenge where Lucas Oil’s products shine,” said Brandon Bernstein, director of partnership marketing for Lucas Oil. “This is one of the most extreme racing circuits in the world – the significant elevation expectantly reduces engine power and for the same reason managing braking and engine heat becomes even more critical. On top of all that, teams must adjust aerodynamics within NASCAR specs to account for the thinner air and reduced downforce. It’s in demanding conditions like these where our race-proven products can help teams succeed. We can’t wait to see the RCR team in action.”
Over the past decade, Lucas Oil and ECR have collaborated to develop proprietary, race-day engine oils engineered to maintain optimal viscosity and performance even under extreme conditions — such as reduced air density, thinner oxygen levels and higher engine temperatures expected in Mexico City.
“With the extreme altitude in Mexico City, the demands on our engines will be unlike anything we’ve seen this season. Having Lucas Oil’s expertise and products in our corner gives us great confidence heading into this historic race,” said Bob Fisher, senior vice president of ECR. “We are more than up for the challenge and thrilled to be back racing at the Autódromo in front of an international fanbase and showcasing high performance racing engines on a global stage.”
