AVONDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- The most popular motorsports series in Mexico will make its U.S. debut Friday at Phoenix International Raceway.

The Mexico-based Toyota Series will hold its season opener at the track, and run as a support race for NASCAR's Sprint Cup, Nationwide and K&N West Series.

The series began in 2004 and moved under the NASCAR banner in 2007. Drivers run Mexican V8 stock cars.

Among the featured drivers is Daniel Surez, a 20-year-old out of Monterrey, Mexico, who is part of NASCAR's Next9 initiative. He's the championship favorite this year after finishing third in standings last year.

And 16-year-old Ruben Garcia Jr. has joined the powerful Canel's team after winning rookie of the year last season.