After the Texas Grand Prix, Formula 1 quickly heads to Mexico, where the circuit named after the Rodríguez brothers will host the next Grand Prix.
This is the second race in a sequence of three that will conclude the following weekend in Brazil. The event stands out for the unique environmental conditions of Mexico City: thin air due to the altitude and the complex management of brake and engine temperatures present challenges that will put teams to the test. The turbo component’s role will be even more crucial, and these factors might create opportunities for less-expected teams to shine.
In Texas, Ferrari delivered a dominant performance, while Verstappen widened his lead over Norris. This unpredictable end to the season brings fresh hope for Ferrari, who will aim to replicate their success from Austin. Sainz, in fact, had identified Mexico and Las Vegas as races where Ferrari could be especially competitive, a prediction that now seems increasingly realistic.
After such a significant victory, however, Maranello must balance its enthusiasm, avoiding the excessive optimism that has led to disappointments in the past. Missing the chance to build on their progress could cost them in the Constructors' Championship, while the Drivers' Championship remains a difficult goal to achieve without unexpected events.
Austin also proved crucial for Red Bull, as Verstappen increased his lead over Norris. The RB20 appeared more competitive, but it was the drivers who made the real difference. Norris, who admitted to a mistake at the GP’s start, couldn’t withstand Verstappen’s determined driving. McLaren wasn’t as competitive as expected, and even Piastri struggled to perform at his usual level.
Mercedes, on the other hand, is still grappling with the instability of the W15, a challenging car to handle, with the seven-time champion seeming to be the most impacted, struggling to reach his peak performance.
In Mexico, the GP will provide significant opportunities for teams vying for positions up to tenth place. Racing Bulls, Haas, and Williams appear to be in good shape, thanks in part to the contribution of newcomers like Colapinto and Lawson. Meanwhile, Alpine, Sauber, and Aston Martin seem disadvantaged, although the Mexican track could give Aston Martin a chance for a recovery.
For this race, Pirelli will bring the softest tire compounds, and unless the safety car intervenes, a single pit-stop strategy is expected.
At this stage of the season, it’s possible but not guaranteed that Ferrari can establish itself as a third challenger between Red Bull and McLaren in the battle for the titles. Both teams will be more competitive than in Texas, and Ferrari’s main obstacle could be itself, given the risks of strategic errors.
Nevertheless, the Austin double on such a demanding track is a positive sign for Ferrari. If they can avoid the mistakes that have held them back in the past, surprises might emerge in the remaining races. However, there is no escaping the regret over the difficult period in June and July, which compromised Ferrari’s ambitions: in the end, the title will go to the team that made the fewest mistakes, likely securing a fourth consecutive championship.
© Simone Marchetti