F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Fair competition between Nico and Lewis essential - Lowe

With the Constructors title signed and sealed, Mercedes need only to focus on providing Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton with the equipment worthy of their title battle, according to technical director Paddy Lowe.

While Rosberg could actually be crowned in Mexico next weekend if he wins and his team mate retires, everyone is hoping the fight between the two men will go down to the wire.

But with Hamilton dogged by bad luck this season and a traumatic retirement in Malaysia, the onus is on the German team to provide its drivers with an equal opportunity.

"We'll be focused on doing the right homework to make sure we're in good shape for the race in terms of reliability and performance," said Paddy Lowe.

"Top of our list will be to maintain the best possible conditions for a fair competition between Nico and Lewis as the title battle builds towards an exciting crescendo."

Mexico isn't without its pitfalls however given the specifics associated with the high-altitude venue and the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

"From a technical point of view, the key feature of this race is the high altitude at which Mexico City is situated - giving it an atmospheric pressure of less than 80% of normal levels.

"This brings with it a reduction of aerodynamic forces, both downforce and drag, while the turbocharged Hybrid Power Unit is still able to deliver its normal level of power.

"The knock-on effect is that this circuit is tough on tyres, as grip levels are very low, and tough on brakes thanks to high speeds combined with low levels of cooling and drag.

"So, there are a lot of things to manage through the weekend simply to keep both cars healthy. At the same time, it's tricky for the drivers, as they are essentially running downforce levels equivalent to Monza at a circuit with significantly more twists and turns.

"That creates some headaches for them behind the wheel but also the potential for some great racing, so hopefully the crowds will be treated to just that."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.