After a long absence the Mexican Grand Prix returns to the Formula 1 calendar this weekend as it visits the newly-updated Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. Last used in 1992 the circuit features a revised layout, new asphalt, and new facilities.
McLaren Honda go into the Mexican Grand Prix buoyed by their performance at
COTA
where weather conditions, attrition, and some genuine progress helped Button and Alonso secure 6th and 11th places, respectively (Alonso was running as high as 5th before an engine electronics glitch caused him to drop to 11th). Button was to use the new 'Specification 4’ Honda engine this weekend but it remains unclear whether he will fit the new engine as McLaren are still trying to understand the temporary defect that occurred when Alonso ran the engine last weekend at
COTA
. Expect one of the cars to be in the points on merit.
Elsewhere on the grid we’ve been promised no-holds-barred racing from the Mercedes duo now that Hamilton has clinched his third
WDC
title. Having taken grid penalties at
COTA
look for Ferrari to be strong as they use their updated engines without penalty.
US TV SCHEDULE
Practice: Friday October 30th, 11:30PM
EST
,
NBCSN
Qualifying: Saturday October 31st, 2:00PM
EST
,
CNBC
RACE: Sunday November 1st, 1:30PM
EST
,
NBC
CIRCUIT
INFORMATION
Lap data
Lap length 4.438km (2.758 miles)
Turns: 17
Race laps 69
Race distance 306.222km (190.278 miles)
Pole position Left-hand side of the track
Lap record* 1’16.788 (208.064 kph) by Nigel Mansell, 1992
Fastest lap 1’16.346 (209.268 kph) by Nigel Mansell, 1992
Strategy
Prime tire: Medium
Option tire: Soft
CURRENT
STANDINGS
Drivers
1. Lewis Hamilton, 327
2. Sebastian Vettel, 251
3. Nico Rosberg, 247
Constructors
1. Mercedes, 574
2. Ferrari, 374
3. Williams, 220
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