The F1 Mexican Grand Prix this weekend promises to be a thrilling race as the season nears its end. Here’s a breakdown of what we can expect.

Max Verstappen vs. Lando Norris

While Lando Norris had been gaining momentum earlier this season, Max Verstappen managed to extend his lead by five points in Austin. With just 146 points still available and a 57-point gap between the two drivers, the title fight isn’t over, but Verstappen remains the favorite. Norris will need to outperform Verstappen consistently to keep his championship hopes alive.

Charles Leclerc has also been on strong form recently, with Ferrari’s stunning 1-2 finish in Austin. Leclerc has matched Norris’s score of 98 points since the summer break and outperformed Verstappen by 21 points over the past five races. However, the gap between Leclerc and Verstappen remains 79 points, making it difficult for Leclerc to win the championship, but not impossible.

Constructors’ Championship

The Constructors’ Championship is where things get very tight. Ferrari’s impressive 43-point haul in Austin brought them within eight points of Red Bull for second place. McLaren still leads the pack with a 40-point gap over Red Bull. With 250 points still available, all three teams have a genuine shot at the title.

Ferrari’s improved performance on various types of circuits could make them a serious threat, but McLaren and Red Bull will be looking to optimize their strategies in Mexico. Expect a tense battle between the teams as every point counts at this stage of the season.

Mexico

The unique conditions in Mexico City provide a significant challenge for all the teams. Cars will be set up with maximum downforce but will experience reduced aerodynamic effects due to the thinner air. This creates a unique combination, often compared to a Monaco-style setup but with Monza-like speed. The conditions could lead to unexpected results as teams and drivers adjust to the tricky handling.

Sergio Perez’s Home Race

Sergio Perez returns to race in front of his passionate home crowd in Mexico, where he will have support but also expectations. After a tough run of form, scoring only 47 points over the last 13 races compared to 103 points in the first six rounds, Perez is under pressure to deliver. Last year, he retired on the opening lap, but this weekend offers him a chance for redemption. With McLaren and Ferrari chasing Red Bull in the Constructors’ standings, Perez’s performance could be critical for the team’s success.

Rookies

There is a lot of buzz around the new talents, and this weekend will feature some exciting appearances. Liam Lawson returns after his impressive performance in Austin, while Franco Colapinto continues his strong showing for Williams, scoring two top-ten finishes in his first four races.