Daniel Alejandro Suárez Garza, born January 7, 1992, in Monterrey, Mexico, is a professional stock car racing driver who competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series for Trackhouse Racing, driving the No. 99 Chevrolet ZL1. He is widely recognized for his trailblazing achievements as a Mexican-born driver in NASCAR.
Suárez’s racing career began in karting in 2002, and by 2010, he had moved to the NASCAR Mexico Series, where he won the Rookie of the Year title. His success continued in the U.S. as he progressed through the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, winning his first race in 2013. Suárez gained widespread attention in 2016 when he became the first Mexican driver to win a major NASCAR National Series title by claiming the Xfinity Series championship.
In 2017, Suárez moved to the NASCAR Cup Series with Joe Gibbs Racing, replacing the retiring Carl Edwards. After spending several seasons with JGR, he joined Stewart-Haas Racing in 2019 before moving to Gaunt Brothers Racing in 2020. Suárez’s career took a significant turn when he signed with Trackhouse Racing for the 2021 season. That year, he earned his first top-five finish with Trackhouse and solidified his place as a consistent competitor.
Suárez made history in 2022 by becoming the first Mexican-born driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race, claiming victory at Sonoma Raceway. He achieved another career milestone in 2024, winning the Ambetter Health 400 at Atlanta with a thrilling photo finish, marking his second Cup Series victory.
Throughout his career, Suárez has earned multiple accolades, including a Xfinity Series championship, a Cup Series Rookie of the Year award, and consistent finishes in the top 10 in Cup Series standings. Known for his perseverance, Suárez has become one of the most prominent Mexican drivers in NASCAR history, furthering his legacy with each race.
Beyond racing, Suárez is actively involved in his community, working with various charitable causes and advocating for diversity in motorsports. His legacy in NASCAR continues to inspire future generations of drivers from all backgrounds.
Early Career and Rise in Mexican Racing
Daniel Alejandro Suárez Garza, born on January 7, 1992, in Monterrey, Mexico, began his motorsport journey in karting at the age of 10. In 2007, he secured the class championship in the Mexican karting circuit, setting the foundation for his professional career. By 2008, Suárez moved to Mini-Stocks, a division within the NASCAR Mexico Series. He made a significant impact by becoming the youngest driver to win a race in this category. Suárez continued to rise through the ranks, and in 2010, he entered the NASCAR Toyota Series, driving for Telcel Racing. His talent shone as he claimed the Rookie of the Year award.
In 2011, Suárez earned the distinction of being the highest-finishing Mexican driver in the Toyota All-Star Showdown at Irwindale Speedway, finishing 11th. He also competed in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East that year, driving for Rev Racing and marking the beginning of his involvement with NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program.
Climbing the NASCAR Ladder
In 2012, Suárez’s dedication to his craft saw him balance his time between the NASCAR Mexico Series and the K&N Pro Series East, where he finished 3rd in the former while also claiming two victories. His efforts earned him a top-three finish in the K&N Pro Series East standings. Throughout 2013, Suárez continued his rise, capturing his first win in the K&N Pro Series East at Columbus Motor Speedway and finishing 3rd in the overall standings. His success in the series contributed to him becoming a key member of NASCAR's Drive for Diversity program.
In 2014, Suárez achieved notable victories in both the K&N Pro Series East and the Toyota Series, positioning himself as one of the brightest young talents in NASCAR. His performance earned him a chance to make his debut in the NASCAR Nationwide Series (now the Xfinity Series) with Joe Gibbs Racing at Richmond International Raceway. Though he finished 19th, his talent was evident.
Breakthrough in NASCAR: Xfinity Series and Championship
In 2015, Suárez’s big break came when he signed with Joe Gibbs Racing to race full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Driving the No. 18 Toyota, Suárez quickly made his mark by winning three poles, including at Daytona, Iowa, and Kentucky, alongside securing the 2015 NASCAR Xfinity Series Rookie of the Year title. Suárez finished 5th in the points standings that year.
The breakthrough came in 2016, when Suárez won his first Xfinity Series race at Michigan International Speedway, passing Kyle Busch on the last lap. This victory made Suárez the first Mexican-born driver to win in a NASCAR national series. He went on to secure his first Xfinity Series Championship in a dominant performance at Homestead-Miami Speedway, making history as the first foreign-born driver to win a NASCAR national series title.
NASCAR Cup Series: Transition and Challenges
Following the retirement of Carl Edwards in 2017, Suárez was promoted to drive for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series with the No. 19 car. His first year was filled with challenges as he adjusted to the elite competition of the Cup Series. Despite struggling with consistency, Suárez showed potential with a career-best 6th place finish at Dover. However, his 2017 campaign ended with mixed results, and it was announced that he would not return to JGR in 2019, with Martin Truex Jr. taking over the seat.
New Opportunities at Stewart-Haas Racing
In 2019, Suárez signed with Stewart-Haas Racing, taking over the No. 41 Ford Mustang. The transition came with struggles, as Suárez found it difficult to qualify for the NASCAR Playoffs, finishing 17th in the standings. Despite this, he showed flashes of his ability, with some notable performances including a strong showing at Phoenix. Unfortunately, Suárez’s tenure with SHR ended after the 2019 season.
Joining Trackhouse Racing: Success and Wins
In 2021, Suárez joined Trackhouse Racing and started driving the No. 99 Chevrolet Camaro. After some growing pains with the new team, Suárez and Trackhouse Racing showed promise. His performance peaked with a 4th place finish at Bristol Dirt, marking the team’s first Top 5 result. Suárez continued to perform well, with additional Top 10 finishes at Dover, Nashville, and Texas.
In 2022, Suárez made history as the first Mexican-born driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race, taking the checkered flag at Sonoma Raceway. This victory marked the highlight of his career, as he secured Trackhouse Racing’s first-ever Cup Series win. Suárez finished the 2022 season with his career-best 10th place finish in the points standings.
Continued Success and 2024 Victory
In 2023, Suárez’s performances continued to be strong. He started the season with a 7th place finish at the Daytona 500, but missed the Playoffs due to a rough stretch in the middle of the season. Despite this, Suárez remained a consistent contender. In 2024, he took another victory at Atlanta Motor Speedway, narrowly edging Ryan Blaney in one of the closest finishes in Cup Series history, showcasing his skill in high-pressure situations.
Daniel Suárez’s international career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements, particularly as a trailblazer for Mexican drivers in the world of NASCAR. Born in Monterrey, Mexico, Suárez’s rise in motorsports has been notable for his ability to break barriers and compete at the highest levels internationally.
Early Years in Mexico
Suárez's international career began in Mexico's national racing circuits, where he quickly established himself as a formidable talent. His journey started in karting in 2002, progressing to the NASCAR Toyota Series, where he made a name for himself by winning the Rookie of the Year title in 2010. Suárez continued to gain experience and visibility in the Toyota Series, which provided him with the necessary foundation to pursue international racing opportunities. His success in Mexico’s premier stock car series was a crucial stepping stone for his future in NASCAR’s more competitive and prestigious American circuits.
Move to NASCAR K&N Pro Series East
In 2011, Suárez’s journey took him beyond Mexico as he entered the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, a key development series in the United States. As part of the Drive for Diversity program, which aims to promote minority drivers, Suárez represented a new generation of talent from Latin America. Over the next few years, Suárez competed in both the K&N Pro Series East and the NASCAR Toyota Series, securing his place as a rising star in international racing. His performance in both series earned him widespread recognition, culminating in him becoming the first Mexican driver to win a NASCAR national series championship in 2016.
Breakthrough in the Xfinity Series
Suárez’s success continued as he made his mark in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, marking a pivotal moment in his international career. In 2016, Suárez won the Xfinity Series Championship, making history as the first foreign-born driver to win a major NASCAR national series title. This victory not only cemented his place in NASCAR history but also highlighted the growing influence of Mexican drivers on the international motorsport scene.
NASCAR Cup Series: A Global Stage
Suárez’s breakthrough moment on the international racing stage came when he transitioned to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2017, driving for Joe Gibbs Racing. As one of the only Mexican drivers to compete at the top level of American stock car racing, Suárez’s participation in the Cup Series garnered global attention. His rise to prominence in NASCAR has made him a prominent figure in the global motorsports community, inspiring aspiring drivers from Mexico and beyond.
Trackhouse Racing and Continued International Success
Suárez’s international career further blossomed when he joined Trackhouse Racing in 2021, a team that provided him with a platform to compete consistently at the highest level. His international appeal was underscored by his victory at the Sonoma Raceway in 2022, where he became the first Mexican-born driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race. This achievement was a milestone not just for Suárez, but for the sport itself, marking a significant moment for Latino representation in NASCAR.
Impact on Mexican Motorsport
Throughout his international career, Daniel Suárez has been a pioneer for Mexican drivers in NASCAR, where he has achieved unprecedented success. His impact goes beyond his race wins, as he has become a symbol of Mexican excellence in a sport that has traditionally been dominated by American drivers. Suárez’s international career has helped elevate the profile of motorsport in Mexico, and he continues to serve as an ambassador for Latino drivers hoping to make it in NASCAR and other motorsports disciplines.
Aggressive yet Controlled Driving
Suárez is known for his aggressive driving style, especially on high-speed oval tracks where he often makes daring moves to advance positions. His approach to racing is fearless, and he is not afraid to take risks, whether it’s pushing hard during the late stages of a race or making bold overtakes on the inside line. This aggressiveness is often paired with a remarkable level of control, particularly when navigating through pack racing, where staying calm and precise is crucial to avoid accidents and capitalize on every opportunity.
Tactical Racing and Patience
Despite his aggressive style, Suárez is also a highly tactical driver. His ability to read races and strategically manage tire wear and fuel usage is impressive. He is known to make calculated moves when the time is right, showing patience during longer runs and waiting for the perfect moment to make an aggressive push. This strategic awareness helps him in conserving his resources during races, which is vital in the grueling NASCAR races, especially in longer events like those in the Cup Series.
Adaptability Across Tracks
Another significant aspect of Suárez’s driving style is his adaptability to various racing conditions and track types. Whether it's road courses like Sonoma Raceway or the more traditional oval tracks such as Daytona and Talladega, Suárez has shown a strong ability to adjust his driving techniques to suit each environment. His win at Sonoma in 2022, where he became the first Mexican-born driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race, demonstrated his proficiency in road racing, a discipline that requires precision, smooth cornering, and braking technique.
Aggression at Key Moments
Suárez’s driving style also features decisive aggression at crucial moments. His racecraft shines when he needs to make up positions during the final laps. Whether it's getting through the field after a late restart or executing risky maneuvers in the final stages, Suárez has the ability to stay calm under pressure, making key passes while still respecting the limits of his car and his competitors.
Consistency and Development
Throughout his career, Suárez has honed his driving style to focus on consistency over the course of a season. While early in his career, he exhibited raw speed and talent, he has matured into a driver who can produce consistent finishes. His ability to perform consistently across multiple seasons and in various weather conditions has earned him a reputation as a reliable racer who can be counted on to execute in any given situation.
Born in Monterrey, Mexico, Daniel Suárez is deeply connected to his roots and values his family ties. He moved to the United States to pursue his racing career, but his connection to Mexico remains strong. In 2022, Suárez became engaged to Julia Piquet, the daughter of three-time Formula 1 World Champion Nelson Piquet, marking a personal milestone. The couple married in July 2024 in Brazil, a celebration of both cultures, and their relationship has often made headlines in the media. Suárez's personal life is a mix of public and private moments, with the driver often sharing his milestones on social media platforms.
In addition to his family life, Suárez values his Mexican heritage and is proud to represent Mexico in the NASCAR Cup Series, bringing attention to the country's motorsport presence. His popularity in Mexico has grown significantly, with the driver becoming an icon for aspiring racers.
Suárez is passionate about giving back to the community. He has used his growing profile to support various causes, especially those benefiting children and young adults. As a successful Mexican-American figure, he has taken a particular interest in promoting diversity in motorsports. Suárez’s commitment to diversity is evident in his support of the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, which has helped increase minority participation in the sport.
Through his charity work, Suárez aims to inspire young drivers, particularly from his native Mexico, by making racing more accessible and encouraging the next generation of talent. He has been involved in several charity events, often donating his time and resources to initiatives focused on education and youth development.
Suárez is no stranger to the media spotlight. He has participated in various interviews, talk shows, and public appearances that have enhanced his reputation as a personable and charismatic figure. In 2017, he voiced the character Daniel "Danny" Swérvez in the Pixar movie "Cars 3", cementing his place in pop culture. Suárez has also made cameos in movies like "Stuber" (2019), further expanding his profile outside of racing. These ventures allow him to connect with a wider audience beyond his racing fans, showcasing his versatility and sense of humor.
Moreover, Suárez has appeared on platforms like the Today Show, discussing his racing career and the progress of diversity within NASCAR. His engagement with the media has been key in helping him become a relatable figure for fans, particularly those in Mexico and the broader Hispanic community.
With his rising popularity, Suárez has become an influential figure in the world of social media. He actively engages with fans through Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, where he shares updates about his career, personal life, and charity efforts. His online presence reflects a more personal side of him, connecting directly with his supporters and providing them with insight into both his life on and off the track.
As a prominent sports figure, Suárez has also attracted brand endorsements from major companies. His partnership with brands like Freeway Insurance and his sponsorship deals with Trackhouse Racing have made him a valuable asset to the motorsports marketing world. These sponsorships provide financial backing for his career while expanding his influence in the business world.
Suárez resides in Huntersville, North Carolina, a city known for its proximity to major motorsport venues like the Charlotte Motor Speedway. His life in Huntersville is a balance of training, family time, and preparing for races. This base provides him with a tranquil environment outside of the hectic race weekends, giving him time to focus on his fitness regimen and the technical aspects of his driving.
In 2024, Suárez proudly became a dual citizen of both Mexico and the United States. This significant milestone not only reflects his commitment to both countries but also strengthens his identity as a bridge between two cultures. His citizenship represents the growing recognition of his role as a prominent Mexican-American figure in sports.
Looking ahead, Daniel Suárez’s focus is to continue competing at the highest level in NASCAR, but also to expand his legacy both within and outside the sport. With a strong passion for motorsports and his personal ambitions, he is expected to remain a key figure in NASCAR, serving as a role model for young athletes and aspiring racers from diverse backgrounds.
One of the most significant aspects of Suárez’s legacy is his role as a trailblazer for Hispanic drivers in a sport that historically lacked representation from minority groups. In 2016, Suárez made history by becoming the first foreign-born driver to win a NASCAR national series championship. His victory in the NASCAR Xfinity Series solidified his status as a pioneer, breaking down barriers for future drivers from diverse backgrounds. This achievement was not just a personal triumph but a victory for diversity in motorsports, inspiring young drivers, particularly in Mexico and Latin America, to pursue racing as a career.
Suárez's rise through the ranks of NASCAR also helped shine a spotlight on the Drive for Diversity program, an initiative by NASCAR to provide opportunities for minority and female drivers. His involvement in the program demonstrated the tangible benefits of NASCAR’s push for inclusivity and created a pathway for other underrepresented racers to follow in his footsteps.
Another key aspect of Suárez’s legacy is his historic win at the 2022 Toyota/Save Mart 350, where he became the first Mexican-born driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race. This victory marked a major milestone in NASCAR history, as it proved that drivers from outside the United States could compete at the highest level of the sport and achieve success. The win not only elevated Suárez's status but also cemented his legacy as one of the most important figures in NASCAR’s internationalization.
His victory at Sonoma was not just about the race itself but symbolized the broader impact he has had on the sport’s global appeal. By becoming the first Mexican driver to take the Cup Series win, Suárez gave hope to young Mexican drivers and was a key figure in expanding NASCAR’s reach beyond its traditional American base.
Over the years, Suárez has proven himself to be a consistent and resilient competitor. While his journey in the Cup Series has had its ups and downs, including several team changes and adjustments, Suárez’s ability to persevere has been key to his legacy. Whether driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, Stewart-Haas Racing, or Trackhouse Racing, Suárez has remained a formidable force on the track, consistently improving his performance.
Suárez’s legacy is also defined by his work ethic, his commitment to improving his craft, and his focus on team collaboration. While his career was marked by early struggles, including a lack of sponsorship deals and team stability, Suárez’s ability to stay focused and improve year after year is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport.
Suárez’s success has made him a powerful role model for Latino athletes. As one of the most visible Latinx figures in motorsports, he has used his platform to encourage others from Latin American countries, particularly Mexico, to pursue their dreams in racing. His success challenges the notion that motorsports are reserved for a particular demographic and has opened doors for a new generation of Latino drivers.
Beyond racing, Suárez is seen as an ambassador for diversity in sports. His commitment to showcasing the potential of athletes from diverse backgrounds has helped reshape the narrative around NASCAR, encouraging inclusivity and expanding the sport’s cultural reach.
Suárez’s legacy will be remembered for his impact on NASCAR’s international expansion. As one of the most prominent Mexican drivers in the sport, he has helped increase interest in NASCAR in Latin America, a key market for future growth. His influence on young Latinx drivers has sparked interest in NASCAR’s developmental programs, ensuring that the sport continues to evolve with the times.
In addition to his achievements, Suárez’s positive influence on the motorsport community, particularly his humility and dedication, will be part of his lasting legacy. Whether he’s winning races, representing diverse communities, or inspiring the next generation of drivers, Suárez’s legacy is firmly cemented as one of trailblazing achievement and cultural impact in NASCAR.
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