Altitude Challenge at Mexico City GP on October 25, 2024

In October 2024, the Formula 1 season transitions from a race in Texas to its next chapter in Mexico City, where competitors face unique challenges due to high altitude. The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, at 2,285 meters above sea level, is the highest track on the racing calendar. This elevation results in a decrease in air density, affecting car performance significantly, including engine cooling and aerodynamic downforce. As teams prepare to race, they must adapt their cars to mitigate the consequences of these conditions. The thinner air in Mexico City causes cars to struggle with downforce, leading to increased strain on brakes and requiring teams to implement larger ducts for better cooling. This adaptation, however, increases drag, complicating the balance between downforce and speed critical for race circuits. Tyre degradation is also an issue, exacerbated by lower grip levels, making it essential for teams to strategize effectively. Ferrari’s recent struggles at these high altitudes compared to competitors like Red Bull and Mercedes underline the significance of turbocharger performance during such races. McLaren, however, is optimistic as they arrive in Mexico, looking to leverage medium-speed track advantages and new upgrades to help driver Lando Norris close the points gap behind Max Verstappen, who currently leads the championship. As the teams set to compete, the attention remains on how these altitude-related challenges will unfold during the race, impacting both strategy and drive performance in the continuing championship battle.