Mexico City Grand Prix: Preview

The Autodromo Hermanos Rodríguez, named after Mexico’s famous racing brothers Pedro and Ricardo, is located in the eastern suburbs of Mexico City’s sprawling metropolis. 

It is one of the most vibrant events on Formula 1’s calendar, with a frenzied crowd occupying the Foro Sol stadium – through which the circuit passes – most notable when home hero Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez drives through. Mexico City is a colorful and captivating event, enhanced by the history and culture present in the capital, and heightened further by the Dia de los Muertos, the world-famous festival which typically coincides with the grand prix’s date.  

The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez may appear a relatively straightforward circuit on paper but there is an atypical element to the event. At 2,200 meters above sea level Mexico City is comfortably the highest venue visited by Formula 1, a full 1,500 meters higher than second-highest circuit Interlagos. That altitude has an impact on a car’s operations. The thinner air means car generate less downforce, which can cause more sliding through the medium-speed Esses that make up the middle portion of the lap, accentuating tire wear. 

Straight-line speed is usually the highest all season, despite running bigger rear wings than several venues, because of the lower drag levels. This can make overtaking a challenge, with the effect of the DRS lessened, while brake and power unit temperatures in dirty air regularly need to be monitored. 

The Mexico City Grand Prix will be the 200^th Formula 1 grand prix start for Nico Hulkenberg, who becomes only the 22^nd driver in history to reach the milestone. MoneyGram Haas F1 Team will also welcome Ferrari Driver Academy member Oliver Bearman, who will drive the VF-23 during Free Practice 1 on Friday – Kevin Magnussen stepping aside for the session, fulfilling one of the team’s two rookie sessions in 2023.