Haas is set to return to the track for the Mexico City Grand Prix. Austin delivered a mixed weekend for the team, with Ollie Bearman securing valuable points, while Esteban Ocon struggled and remained largely off the radar. What happened at COTA is now behind them, and the focus is on Mexico City, where the American duo will aim to achieve strong results. Here are the insights from Haas’ top representatives.
Ayao Komatsu on the challenges of Mexico
Ayao Komatsu, the team’s Technical Director, commented: “The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is a truly unique circuit. It is the highest-altitude track we visit, which means a high-downforce package generates only limited aerodynamic load, and cooling becomes the biggest challenge. Looking at the VF-25 with our high-downforce package, and if we get the fundamentals right, I see no reason why we shouldn’t aim for points. I don’t focus on the result itself, because the result will be what it will be, but we must concentrate on our process, on what we are doing, and how we approach the challenges ahead.”
Ollie Bearman eager to return to the points
Ollie Bearman added: “I’m excited to go to Mexico; it will be my third time there, having done FP1 in the last two years. Overall, I find the city very fun and unique, and I always enjoy going there. The altitude presents unique challenges, first for the drivers, as the race is physically demanding due to lower oxygen levels. It’s also tougher on the cars, which generate much less downforce, and the brakes are pushed much closer to the limit compared to a standard race. I’m excited to finally race here after a couple of free practice sessions.”
Esteban Ocon seeks redemption
Esteban Ocon stated: “I’m looking forward to returning to Mexico this weekend. It’s a fantastic country with amazing people, and the atmosphere both in the city and on track is truly unique. You can really feel the passion of the Mexican fans from the moment you land. For me, one of the most iconic parts of the circuit is the stadium section filled with spectators. Driving there is always very special, and all the drivers are excited ahead of the race.”
He added: “This circuit is exciting to drive, and the car behaves differently than anywhere else we go due to the high altitude, so it’s something all teams will pay attention to. For us, we haven’t had particularly smooth weekends lately, and luck hasn’t been on our side. We will aim once again for a clean weekend, maximizing performance to put ourselves in a strong position and secure a positive result in Mexico City.”
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