F1 Mexico City Grand Prix: FP3 Live Updates and Preview

Formula 1 drivers are set to hit the track for the final one-hour FP3 session at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico, a crucial run before qualifying. This circuit's unique altitude presents significant challenges for all ten teams.

Why it matters:

• The Mexico City Grand Prix is notorious for its high altitude (7,300-7,350 feet above sea level), which drastically impacts car performance.
• Reduced air density at this altitude forces teams to open cooling ducts and brakes more than usual to prevent overheating.
• Teams must also run extremely high downforce configurations, similar to those used at Monaco or the Hungaroring, to compensate for the thinner air's lack of aerodynamic grip.
• FP3 is the last chance for teams to fine-tune their setups and gather data before the critical qualifying session.

The big picture:

• Max Verstappen arrives in Mexico on a dominant run, having won three of the last four Grands Prix.
• Verstappen has an exceptional record at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, boasting a record five victories.
• McLaren is also expected to be strong contenders, building on their impressive form and having recently secured their second consecutive Constructors' Championship at the Singapore Grand Prix.

What's next:

• The highly anticipated FP3 session is scheduled to begin at 19:30 CET on Saturday, providing the final insights before qualifying.
• Unlike recent Sprint weekends, the Mexico City Grand Prix follows a traditional format with three practice sessions, followed by qualifying and the Grand Prix on Sunday.