Driver Daniel Suárez hosted Daniel’s Amigos in Pilsen on June 20, aiming to excite the Hispanic, Latino community for next month’s NASCAR Chicago Street Race on July 6-7. It was the first time the event was held in Illinois.
The program first launched in 2019 at the Auto Club 400 race in Fontana, CA. Over 500 lively fans came together with drums, flags, and non-stop chants throughout the race. Daniel’s Amigos has since held events in various states, including California, Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, and Texas.
The event in Harrison Park included entertainment by Chicago native, singer Rosalba Valdez and other performers, as well as a Kids Zone and racing exhibits.
One of the highlights of the festival was the NASCAR Fueling History Mobile Museum complete without a big long driver wall.
To watch VIDEO, click HERE.
Daniel’s Amigos Festival, Harrison Park, Chicago
“Aqui me tratan como en casa,” said Suárez about Chicago race fans making him feel at home. The Monterrey, Mexico native told Illinois Latino News he is proud to grow the love of NASCAR racing in his country and with U.S. Hispanic, Latino fans. Suárez became the first Mexican-born driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race in 2022.
The 32-year-old added another win on June 17 when he was sworn in as a U.S. citizen in Charlotte, North Carolina. “The citizenship ceremony was amazing, but what was even more amazing was to see other people there, that support me, and that love me,” he said.
NASCAR President Steve Phelps and several Trackhouse Racing representatives joined Suárez to commemorate the milestone. The event marked the culmination of a 12-year journey for Suárez, which began when he arrived in the United States with aspirations of competing in NASCAR.
“When I first heard of Daniel Suárez… he didn’t speak a word of English but he didn’t give up,” Phelps said.
Speaking about competing in the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, Suárez said the expectation is always to win. “Sinceramente creo que nuestro equipo es más fuerte este año que el año pasado,” said Suárez about having a stronger team this year.
The second career win in 253 Cup races for Suárez came in a three-wide blur at the line to win at the Atlanta Motor Speedway in February. That photo finish helped him lock up a spot in the playoffs.
Suárez came in 21st at New Hampshire International Speedway on Sunday, June 23.
For more information on NASCAR Chicago Street Race on July 6-7, click HERE.
