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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