NASCAR Cup Series driver replacement reflects on 'chaotic' Mexico City build up

Late NASCAR Cup Series replacement Ryan Truex has reflected on a 'chaotic' few days in the build up to this weekend's race in Mexico City.

Truex will be replacing Joe Gibbs Racing star Denny Hamlin in the No. 11 Toyota at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez this weekend, with Hamlin choosing to miss the race and spend time back home with his family following the birth of his son.

READ MORE: NASCAR Qualifying Today: Mexico City start times, schedule and how to watch live on TV

With Hamlin's fiancée having been pregnant and due at any moment, Truex has been on standby since the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte last month, and finally gets his chance to impress this weekend.

“It’s been a crazy few weeks, especially since Charlotte, I’ve been on standby,” Truex explained to the media in Mexico.

“I’m glad it is at a track where I can practice and have time and know what to do."

READ MORE: Hendrick Motorsports announce driver health update ahead of Mexico City with replacement on standby

Ryan Truex replaces Denny Hamlin in Mexico

Truex went on to reveal that he got the call that he would be replacing Hamlin on Wednesday night, and reflected on what had been a chaotic few days in terms of traveling south of the border.

"I found out on Wednesday night, so it has been kind of chaotic getting here and putting all of that together," Truex continued.

"But I’m just grateful for the experience and grateful to be here. Really just want to enjoy it. I don’t really have any set goals or expectations; I just want to enjoy the weekend.

"I’m driving a Cup car for Joe Gibbs at an international race, this is not something I ever dreamed of doing. Just want to take it all in and have a good time.”

Truex finished 35th out of the 36 Cup Series drivers competing in Mexico during both of Friday's practice sessions.

It will certainly be interesting to see how he does in qualifying on Saturday.

READ MORE: NASCAR star reveals Kyle Busch advantage ahead of Mexico City race

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