Ellis shared photos of firetrucks greeting the plane as they returned to the gate, and firemen standing by as passengers deboarded. Longtime NASCAR reporter Matt Weaver says that the pilot reported blowing an engine, possibly due to a bird strike, during takeoff:

“The captain of a grounded plane carrying NASCAR industry people to Mexico as it aborted a takeoff said 'I dont know if we took a bird but engine 2 blew,'" Weaver wrote. "The industry personnel are off that plane and have their luggage back."

For the first time in 17 years, the NASCAR Xfinity Series is back in action in Mexico City with the Chilango 150 on Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET, The CW, MRN Radio, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio). ENTRY LISTS: Cup Series | Xfinity Series Several Cup Series regulars will be in the field,

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is ready to see Ram back in NASCAR after being away for 13 years. On Dale Jr. Download, Earnhardt shared his reaction to the news and revealed what Ram’s ultimate goal is for its NASCAR return.

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