Just a week after Max Verstappen‘s latest victory, which reopened a championship so far dominated by McLaren, the Formula 1 circus returns to the track for the Mexico City Grand Prix, the second of four American races in this season’s finale. The historic Hermanos Rodriguez circuit is renowned for one distinctive feature: it is located at more than 2,200 meters above sea level.
The track is famous for its unique geographical position, which demands a high-downforce setup, second only to Monaco. At this altitude, the air is significantly thinner, reducing the aerodynamic downforce on the cars. The low air density also challenges engine and brake cooling, making temperature management particularly difficult.
Temperature graphs highlight an even stress distribution across all four tires. However, particular attention is required in the second sector, from turn 4 to turn 11, where the higher number of medium-speed corners places additional stress on the tires. To address this, Pirelli has brought a step-up in tire compounds for this weekend, offering C2, C4, and C5 options. This choice allows teams to manage the low track abrasion and limited loads on the tires while enabling a wider range of strategic options.
The final sector of the track is especially spectacular, featuring the stadium area built from a former baseball stadium, which fills with stands and enthusiastic fans during the race weekend.
Expected tire wear at Hermanos Rodriguez is generally low, with slightly higher wear on the left-hand tires due to the predominance of right-hand corners. The circuit itself offers low grip and low abrasive conditions, which naturally limit tire degradation.
However, teams must carefully manage temperatures—of the car, tires, and brakes—made more challenging by the thin air. Past editions of the Mexico Grand Prix have provided thrilling races, thanks to its high-speed nature and multiple overtaking opportunities throughout the track.
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