NASCAR driver Daniel Suárez helping pets impacted by Hurricane Helene

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, star NASCAR driver Daniel Suárez wanted to make sure everyone got the help they needed, especially those with four legs.

Suárez and his wife, Julia, collected dog and cat food and helped deliver it from Charlotte Motor Speedway.

“I’m a big animal lover; I love all kinds of animals,” Suárez said. “We have dogs and cats at home. I wanted to make sure we don’t forget about all of the animals out there.”

Ahead of Sunday’s Bank of America ROVAL on WCNC Charlotte, Suárez spoke with Sports Director Nick Carboni about a variety of topics, including becoming a United States citizen this summer.

“It’s been an amazing journey,” he said. “It’s very special. It’s something that ten years ago that seemed impossible. Today to be able to say I’m a dual citizen, American and Mexican, it’s very special.”

Suárez is also excited about next year’s NASCAR Cup Series playoff race in Mexico City.

“That’s a dream,” Suárez said. “I’ve been dreaming every single day about one day racing in front of my country.”

This weekend Suárez is racing to remain in the Cup Series playoffs. Currently he is on the bubble, 20 points down from qualifying for the Round of 8.

“I know I can run very well at the ROVAL. I know we’re capable of winning the race. At the end of the day we have to decide if we’re going for the win or going for points. Realistically, 20 points in a road course is not a lot. It’s something that is very achievable. We’re going to see how things play out.”

Contact Nick Carboni at ncarboni@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.

For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts that impact you from WCNC Charlotte, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app and enable push notifications.