Mick Schumacher Q&A: Mexico City GP

Round 18 of the 2021 FIA Formula 1 World Championship brings us to the great heights of the Mexico City Grand Prix. The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is located over 2km above sea level, creating new challenges for cars – and teams alike – on track. Are there any special preparations for driving over a prolonged amount of time in such conditions?

“I wouldn’t say there was any specific training or preparation, but there’s definitely the knowledge that the car will feel different, the car will be different on track and that the engine will be performing less. There will be different difficulties and maybe different perspectives that we’ll need to consider of how the car will behave here. For me personally, I don’t really notice it.”

A side effect of high altitudes can be a lack of downforce. With Sector 1 being a hotbed of action, overtaking opportunities and late braking after long straights, without having raced here before, how long does it take to become comfortable on a new track?

“Luckily, I’ve had a chance to drive the simulator, so I’ve got a good idea of what’s coming my way. I’m really looking forward to it, it felt really good, and I think it’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Mexican fans are some of the loudest and passionate at a Formula 1 event, and that can be seen best at T12 as cars enter the Foro Sol stadium section. How much can you really hear and know about the race when inside the cockpit, and can that atmosphere really add motivation, or pressure, to a driver’s race? 

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the Mexican fans. I’ve been told it’s very nice and the passion you feel when driving there, especially to drive through the stadium part, so it’s exciting to go there. I think if you have the opportunity to hear during the race, it definitely adds motivation to make you want to do well, so I’m looking forward to hearing the crowd cheer and do my best there.”