The FIA has adopted a stricter approach to corner-cutting incidents at the start of the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix, clarifying that drivers could face penalties even if they leave the track without gaining a position. The stewards have issued specific instructions for the opening lap and race restarts, focusing on two sections of the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez where incidents are particularly likely.
The long run to Turn 1 has historically made the Mexico City Grand Prix especially vulnerable to first-corner incidents. Drivers at the front of the field are particularly exposed to contact or the possibility of cutting a corner, and Race Control has generally taken a more lenient approach in previous years. For the 2026 race, however, the stewards have decided to enforce the existing guidelines more strictly.
Why the Mexico GP start could create track limits problems
Running off the circuit through the first or second chicane at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez can provide an advantage even when a driver does not gain a position. This is the central issue addressed in the stewards’ communication, which explains to teams and drivers how the existing racing guidelines will be applied during the opening stages of the Grand Prix.
The clarification applies to the first lap of the race and the first lap following each restart after a Safety Car period or red flag. It specifically covers the sections between Turns 1 and 3 and between Turns 4 and 6.
In these areas, all cars will be considered to be simultaneously attacking and defending. Consequently, a driver who leaves the circuit and retains their position could still be judged to have gained a lasting advantage over a closely following rival, even if no overtaking manoeuvre has taken place.
FIA specifies where drivers must give back positions
The stewards’ communication, issued on Saturday evening, also establishes two specific points by which drivers must surrender a position after leaving the track.
- Turns 1–3: A driver who leaves the circuit in this section must give back the position by Turn 4.
- Turns 4–6: A driver who cuts the slower section must surrender the position by Turn 12.
The clarification therefore also applies to drivers who manage to stay ahead of a closely following opponent by running wide or cutting a corner. Under the existing racing guidelines, maintaining a position in this way can constitute an advantage, just as gaining a position through an illegal manoeuvre can.
The stricter interpretation is particularly relevant given the long approach to the first corner and the likelihood of drivers arriving at the opening sequence in close formation. Both attacking and defensive manoeuvres will be assessed under the same principles.
Mexico GP penalties remain at the stewards’ discretion
Although the FIA has clarified how the guidelines will be applied and where positions must be returned, the stewards will retain the authority to assess each incident individually. They will determine whether a driver has gained an advantage and decide whether a penalty is necessary.
The guidance establishes a clearer framework for the most sensitive sections of the opening lap and subsequent restarts, with particular attention to drivers who maintain their positions after leaving the racing surface.
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