The Mexican Grand Prix has been happening at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez circuit for more than two decades. In all these years the circuit has been one of the most unpredictable race tracks in the world. Teams need to adapt to its unique conditions as it is located at a higher altitude. Planning for the race is itself a headache for most teams due to the circuit conditions and layouts. This year's new implementation by the FIA has made it even more challenging for the teams.
Testing ground for Aerodynamics
The race track is 2200m (7300ft) above sea level and it is the highest track in the F1 calendar. Because of this high altitude air density is very low which causes less downforce. The Front and the Rear wings don't act like normal conditions which makes the cars lose balance.
The teams need to be precise with their setups to save their drivers and cars from any collision or accident. To keep the cars stable around corners they need to generate proper downforce and at the same time minimize the drag on the straights. It is a testing ground for the team's aerodynamic departments.
Lack of Data
Unlike other tracks where teams extract data from previous races that happened at the track, Mexico track is very different compared with other tracks. This is the only track located at the highest altitude and there can't be a comparison with other similar tracks. Teams cannot predict what will happen during their race weekend. They also can't rely on previous years' data as the FIA changes cars every year. So making decisions will be very challenging for the race strategists whether on car setups, Fuel load level, or Pit stops. etc.
Battle with Track conditions
The high altitude will often create unpredictable weather conditions which are ideal at the Mexican Circuit. Sun will be there so the track will be heated and immediately the clouds will be coming and the track will start cooling. The weather fluctuations are very high so teams need to be good at choosing the right tyres. The circuit grip level will also vary making the cars slide more which causes faster Tyre degradation. The brakes will also get more pressure due to high-speed braking areas like turn 1.
Safety cars and DRS Zones
The track is known for its high safety car record. Cars often collide with each other due to the track's tight corners. Turn 1 is very special for accidents as most times the collisions will happen there. FIA has reduced the Mexican GP DRS zones by 75 meters which makes overtaking very hard. So teams need to rely on their car's strength rather than DRS to gain positions.
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