After a challenging weekend in Austin, Mercedes is looking for immediate redemption. This week’s Mexican Grand Prix at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez offers the Brackley team a crucial opportunity to reassert themselves in the fight for second place in the Constructors’ Championship.
With five races remaining, only ten points separate second from fourth, with Ferrari and McLaren ready to battle in a tight season finale.
Toto Wolff does not hide his disappointment over the Texan result but remains confident looking forward: “We had a poor result in Austin and our rivals gained ground on us,” said the Team Principal. “However, we have the chance to respond immediately this weekend in Mexico. It will be a battle until the checkered flag in Abu Dhabi, and this is something we are embracing.”
Altitude as a technical variable
The Mexican track presents unique technical challenges that put cars under pressure, especially from a thermal and aerodynamic perspective. Wolff is fully aware of this: “Mexico City is a unique challenge. The high altitude puts significant stress on brakes and power units, while the thin air requires high-downforce configurations,” he explained. “The field is very close, but we hope to deliver a stronger performance than in Texas.”
Fred Vesti on track in FP1
As previously done in Bahrain, Mercedes will give reserve driver Frederik Vesti the opportunity to drive in the first Friday practice session, taking the place of George Russell. “Fred will be in the car for FP1, completing his second rookie session of the year,” Wolff confirmed. “He will contribute to the program as he always does, providing valuable feedback to the team.”
In total, eight reserve drivers will take to the track at Hermanos Rodríguez this weekend.
With the championship entering its decisive phase, Mercedes aims to regain balance and consistency to finish the season on an upward trajectory. The Mexican GP will be a key test following the disappointment in Austin.
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