2025 F1 Mexico City Grand Prix: Schedule, How to Watch, & Key Storylines

Formula 1 descends on Mexico City this weekend for Round 20 of the 2025 season, with the championship battle intensifying into a thrilling three-way contest. Max Verstappen continues to relentlessly close the gap on McLaren's Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, setting the stage for a high-stakes Grand Prix at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

Why it matters:

• The 2025 F1 season is reaching its crescendo, with the Drivers' Championship now a tight three-way fight between McLaren teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, and Red Bull's Max Verstappen. Every point is crucial, and the unique challenges of the Mexico City circuit could prove pivotal.
• The thin air at over 2,000 meters above sea level significantly impacts engine performance and tire degradation, often leading to unpredictable races and a high Safety Car rate (50%). This creates an environment where strategic gambles can pay off, and driver skill in managing challenging conditions is paramount.
• Verstappen, a five-time winner in Mexico, arrives with immense momentum, having dominated recent races. His performance will be a key indicator of Red Bull's late-season surge and his bid for another championship title.

The details:

• Circuit Characteristics: The 4.3km Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez features long straights, the iconic Peraltada corner, and the atmospheric stadium section. The high altitude significantly reduces aerodynamic downforce and engine power, demanding exceptional setup and driver management.
• Championship Standings: Oscar Piastri leads Lando Norris by just 14 points, with Max Verstappen a further 40 points behind. Verstappen has been the most in-form driver post-summer break, scoring 119 out of a possible 133 points, including three wins in the last four races and a clean sweep in Austin.
• Piastri's Recent Form: The Australian has seen a dip in performance, scoring only 37 points in the last four rounds compared to Norris's 57 and Verstappen's 101. He is seeking his first podium since Monza.
• Hamilton's Drought: Lewis Hamilton, now with Ferrari, is eager to break his 19-race podium drought, the longest for a Ferrari debutant. He recently surpassed 5000 career points in Austin.
• Rookie Drivers: Friday's FP1 session will feature nine rookie drivers, as teams fulfill their mandatory young-driver sessions. Only Sauber will retain their regular lineup.

The big picture:

Mexico has historically been a strong circuit for Verstappen, who holds a record five victories here. His recent form suggests he is a formidable challenger to McLaren's championship hopes. For McLaren, maintaining their lead will require consistent performances from both Piastri and Norris, especially as Verstappen gains ground. The unique challenges of the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez — from altitude effects on engines and tires to its high unpredictability — ensure that this round will be anything but straightforward. The championship battle is reaching its climax, and every race could dramatically shift the momentum.

What's next:

With the championship battle tightening, all eyes will be on how McLaren defends its lead against a surging Verstappen. The unique conditions of the Mexico City Grand Prix promise a thrilling weekend.

• Qualifying Performance: Given the 46% pole-to-win record, securing a strong starting position will be critical, especially with overtaking challenges exacerbated by the thin air.
• Strategic Decisions: Tire management and pit stop strategies will be paramount due to high degradation and the potential for Safety Car interventions.
• Australian History: While no Australian has ever won in Mexico, a victory for Piastri could rewrite history and solidify his championship bid.

The altitude, passionate atmosphere, and intense championship fight ensure the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix will be a pivotal and dramatic round in the Formula 1 season.