Quick Summary
- Short answer: Yes, for most fans who plan sensibly. Every state that hosts a major race we cover is rated Level 2 by the US State Department, except Baja California (Level 3)
- Current advisory: Mexico overall: Level 2, “Exercise increased caution” (updated May 29, 2026)
- Biggest risks for fans: Fake tickets, street-hailed taxis, driving between cities at night, and pickpocketing in crowds
- Do this: Buy tickets only from official sellers, use Uber/DiDi or sitio taxis, and enroll in the State Department’s STEP program
- Health: Mexico City is at 7,350 ft (2,240 m), and tap water isn’t safe to drink
- Emergency: Dial 911 anywhere in Mexico
It’s the question every first-timer asks. The honest answer is that Mexico’s big races are well-run events that attract hundreds of thousands of fans a year, and most host states carry the same Level 2 rating as Mexico overall. Risks vary by state, though, and a few precautions go a long way. Here’s what the US State Department says about each race destination, and how to lower your risk.
Travel Advisory by Race Destination
The US State Department rates each Mexican state separately. The 2026 advisory also lists terrorism among the risks in every state entry. Here are the ratings for the places race fans go:
| State | Races and venues | Advisory level | Key notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico City | F1 Mexico City GP, NASCAR Mexico at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez | Level 2 | No additional restrictions for US government staff |
| Nuevo León | Autódromo Monterrey | Level 2 | Avoid the highways between the border and Monterrey after dark |
| Puebla | Autódromo Miguel E. Abed | Level 2 | — |
| Querétaro | Autódromo de Querétaro | Level 2 | — |
| Aguascalientes | Óvalo Aguascalientes | Level 2 | — |
| Baja California Sur | Baja 1000 (Los Cabos, 2026) | Level 2 | — |
| Baja California | Ensenada (Baja 500, Baja 400) | Level 3, “Reconsider travel” | US government staff restrictions apply only in the Mexicali Valley, not in Tijuana or Ensenada |
| Tamaulipas (drive route) | Nuevo Laredo border crossing | Level 4, “Do not travel” | Pass straight through on the toll road in daylight, or cross elsewhere |
The advisory also sets rules for US government employees everywhere in Mexico. They’re good rules for fans too: don’t travel between cities after dark, don’t hail taxis on the street, and avoid traveling alone. The advisory changes, so check the current version before you go.
The Real Risks at Race Events (and How to Avoid Them)
| Risk | What happens | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Fake or resold tickets | Counterfeits are common around big events. Mexican consumer authorities have run operations against fake F1 tickets, and the Mexico City GP warns that resellers can be arrested | Buy only from the official seller (Ticketmaster México for the Mexico City GP) and never from street sellers |
| Street-hailed taxis | Rare “express kidnappings”, where a victim is driven between ATMs, usually involve taxis hailed on the street | Use Uber, DiDi or a sitio taxi (dispatched from a regulated stand) |
| Pickpocketing | Crowded Metro trains and exits after the race are prime territory | Use a front pocket or zipped bag, and carry only the cash you need |
| “Virtual kidnapping” calls | Scammers call relatives claiming you’ve been kidnapped | Tell family your plans, and keep your phone charged and on |
| Night driving | Highway crime risk rises after dark | Drive between cities in daylight, on “D” toll roads |
Inside the Venue
Big events like the Mexico City GP have airport-style bag checks and a heavy police and private-security presence. Grandstand scuffles between fans were reported at the 2025 race weekend, so if tempers flare nearby, move away and alert staff. Stick to the venue’s bag rules. Our packing list covers what’s allowed at the Mexico City GP.
Health: Altitude, Water and Sun
- Altitude: Mexico City sits at about 2,240 m (7,350 ft). Some travelers feel short of breath or get headaches at first. Go easy on alcohol on your first day and drink plenty of water.
- Water: the CDC says tap water in Mexico isn’t safe to drink. Use bottled or purified water, including for brushing your teeth if you want to be extra careful.
- Sun: UV levels rise about 10% for every 1,000 m of altitude, so the Mexico City sun is stronger than it feels.
Before You Go
- Enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so the embassy can reach you in an emergency.
- Save the US Embassy in Mexico City’s number: (55) 5080-2000 from Mexico, or 011-52-55-5080-2000 from the US. The consular section moved to Nuevo Polanco in November 2025.
- Heading to Monterrey? The US Consulate General there is at Av. Alfonso Reyes 150, Santa Catarina, N.L. (+52 81 8047 3100).
- Keep a photo of your passport and FMM on your phone, separate from the originals.
FAQ
Is it safe to go to the Mexico City Grand Prix?
For most fans, yes. Mexico City is rated Level 2 (“Exercise increased caution”) by the US State Department. The main risks are fake tickets, pickpocketing in crowds and street-hailed taxis. Buy official tickets and use rideshare apps.
What is the US travel advisory level for Mexico in 2026?
Mexico overall is Level 2, “Exercise increased caution” (updated May 29, 2026). Individual states range from Level 2 to Level 4.
Is Ensenada safe for the Baja 500?
Baja California is rated Level 3, “Reconsider travel”, but the State Department’s extra restrictions on US government staff apply only to the Mexicali Valley, not Tijuana or Ensenada. Stay alert, avoid night driving and follow local guidance.
Is Los Cabos safe for the Baja 1000?
Baja California Sur is rated Level 2, “Exercise increased caution”, the same as Mexico City.
What number do I call for an emergency in Mexico?
911 for police, fire and ambulance. On highways, 078 reaches the Green Angels roadside assistance service.
Race Travel Basics
- Driving into Mexico for a race: permits, insurance and border crossings
- Trackside packing list for races in Mexico
- Full 2026 Mexico racing calendar
- Mexico race tracks and venues
- Getting to the Mexico City Grand Prix
- Flying to Los Cabos for the Baja 1000
- Trip cost calculator
- Which Mexican race should you go to?
Sources: US State Department – Mexico Travel Advisory · US State Department – Mexico country information · OSAC – Mexico City crime and safety · Mexico GP – Tickets · US Embassy – Mexico City relocation · US Consulate Monterrey · CDC – Mexico travel health · WHO – Ultraviolet radiation · PlanetF1 – 2025 fan incident. Facts verified September 2026.