Mexico City Speed Trap: Who is the fastest of them all?

The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, nestled high in the Mexican capital, is a unique challenge for Formula 1 teams.

At 2,285 meters above sea level, it's the highest point on the calendar, with implications that go beyond the layout of the track itself.

The high elevation means there’s approximately 25% less oxygen in the air compared to sea-level circuits.

This reduced air density has a ripple effect on engine power, downforce, and cooling efficiency, necessitating specific adjustments to the cars and specific strategies.

It’s therefore a weekend where setup needs to be spot on, drivers need to be adaptable, and the entire team needs to be vigilant about cooling and engine reliability.

Charles Leclerc, who qualified fourth in Mexico City, topped the speed trap reading in Saturday’s qualifying session, the Monegasque clocking in at 350.3 km/h, a maximum velocity equaled by Kevin Magnussen‘s Ferrari-powered Haas.

Poleman Carlos Sainz was only slightly down compared to his teammate, but top speed is undeniably a strong asset for the Scuderia’s drivers. Coupled with the SF-24’s aero efficiency in Mexico, Ferrari’s strong engine power will be put to good use in Sunday’s 71-lap race.

It’s worth noting that Lando Norris, who will line up third on Sunday’s grid, was only the 13th fastest car in a straight line, which implies that the McLaren driver is likely to struggle to gain an upper hand over his Ferrari rivals.

• Read also: Sainz credits focus on tyre preparation for Mexico City GP pole

According to Formula Data Analysis, Sainz’s 0.225s advantage over Max Verstappen in Q3 was built in the latter part of the first sector, between Turn 3 and 6.

But while Ferrari appears to have a small edge over its rivals, it’s likely that Sunday’s race will be another closely contested event between F1’s usual suspects.

Pirelli notes that the level of graining this weekend at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez has been significantly less than in the past, which only reinforces the option of a one-stop strategy,

Theoretically, the quickest plan involves starting on the Medium before switching to the Hard between lap 25 and 32. Those who opt to do the opposite should pit between lap 36 and 43.

The Soft cannot be ruled out entirely, according to Pirelli, as it could come into play as an option either at the start or towards the end, paired with the Hard.

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