Ferrari Calls for Track Changes at 'Almost Dangerous' Mexico City GP

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has called for track changes at the Mexico City Grand Prix, describing the bumps before Turn 1 as "almost dangerous." His appeal came after Friday practice at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, where Charles Leclerc topped both FP1 and FP2 but Lewis Hamilton's SF-26 stopped on track in the second session.

Why it matters:

Track surface issues can compromise safety and performance. The bumps before Turn 1 have caused several cars to bottom out, and Vasseur wants remedial work before FP3. Such adjustments are not uncommon in F1, and venues are usually quick to respond.

The details:

• Leclerc led both practice sessions, but Vasseur downplayed Ferrari's pace, insisting the team must focus on preparation for FP3 and qualifying.
• Vasseur said conditions are "mega extreme" due to the altitude, adding: "It's a challenge for us, but also for the others. We have a lot of work to do... and it's mega bumpy."
• He pinpointed the approach to Turn 1: "Probably a bit too much before Turn 1. It's almost dangerous. We will have to do something before FP3."
• Hamilton's stoppage added to a mixed day for Ferrari, though Vasseur still called it "a good start to the weekend, but still a long way to go."

What's next:

Ferrari hopes overnight changes will improve the track before FP3. The team will also need to address Hamilton's reliability issue and refine its setup, with Leclerc's pace offering encouragement but no room for complacency.