Key Takeaways from the F1 Mexican Grand Prix

The 2025 Formula 1 Mexican Grand Prix was a drama-filled event from the chaotic opening lap, marking a championship lead change after more than six months. From contentious track limits to unexpected team dynamics and crucial driver performances, Mexico delivered a race with significant implications for the rest of the season.

Why it matters:

The Mexican Grand Prix delivered a significant shake-up in the F1 season, particularly with the championship lead changing hands. The race highlighted critical issues from track limit enforcement to individual driver performances and team strategies, providing a clear picture of who's gaining momentum and who's struggling as the season heads towards its climax. These events will undoubtedly influence team decisions and driver standings in the final races.

The Details:

• 'Lawnmower' Racing Controversy: Several drivers, including George Russell, Charles Leclerc, Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, and Fernando Alonso, expressed frustration over drivers gaining positions by cutting across the grass at Turn 1 without penalty. Hamilton felt penalized for adhering to track limits, while Alonso claimed he lost four positions by staying on track. Aston Martin's Mike Krack noted the difficulty for stewards given Mexico's unique opening corner layout.
• Tsunoda's Unrewarded Performance: Despite finishing 11th, Red Bull team boss Laurent Mekies praised Yuki Tsunoda for his "best weekend in a long time," noting his close qualifying deficit to Verstappen and strong first stint pace. However, Tsunoda's race was compromised by being left out longer to aid Verstappen and an 11.85-second pitstop, which allowed Gabriel Bortoleto to overcut him for the final points position. Mekies sees Tsunoda "making steps forward," potentially buying Red Bull more time for their 2026 driver decision.
• Haas's Strategic Success: Haas secured a best-ever fourth place with Ollie Bearman, boosting their fight for sixth in the constructors' championship. The upgraded VF-25 showed strong race pace, and a pragmatic two-stop strategy, while sacrificing a potential podium, secured valuable points and demonstrated the team's ability to execute when it counts.
• Aston Martin's Mexico Struggles: For the fourth consecutive year in this rules era, Aston Martin failed to score points at the Mexican Grand Prix, with a best finish of 11th. The team continues to be baffled by their lack of pace on the low-grip, high-altitude circuit, which exacerbates their aerodynamic efficiency issues. Lance Stroll's spin and Fernando Alonso's brake-related retirement added to a frustrating weekend.
• Lawson's Near Miss: Liam Lawson had a frightening encounter with two marshals running across the track after an early pitstop for repairs. The FIA apologized, acknowledging a communication breakdown regarding debris retrieval. F1 was fortunate a more serious incident didn't occur, raising serious questions about safety protocols.
• Piastri's Title-Killing Slump: Oscar Piastri is facing a tough period, losing his championship lead to teammate Lando Norris. His performance deficit to Norris grew significantly in Mexico, with team boss Andrea Stella attributing it to "special low-grip conditions" that don't suit Piastri's natural driving style. His title hopes depend on a quick return to form on more forgiving tracks.
• Norris's Breakthrough: Conversely, Lando Norris delivered his most complete F1 weekend, capitalizing on the low-grip conditions that play to his strengths. A crucial debrief after Singapore helped him regain confidence and feel with the car, translating into strong results in Austin and Mexico. This form positions him well in the intra-team battle and against Verstappen's title charge.
• Alpine's Woeful Weekend: Alpine experienced one of their worst weekends of the season, with both cars running at the back and focusing primarily on not impeding lapping cars. The team was firmly the slowest, failing to reach Q2 and enduring a "long and lonely afternoon." Scoring a point at the upcoming Brazilian Grand Prix, where they had a double podium last year, would be a seismic shock given their current form.
• Bortoleto's Comeback: Gabriel Bortoleto secured a valuable 10th place for Sauber, marking his first points finish from a lowly starting position. After a challenging Q1, he executed a strong race drive, making up positions and winning a tough battle with Hadjar late on. His aggressive and well-executed drive earned a crucial point for Sauber in the tight midfield battle.

The Big Picture:

The Mexican Grand Prix underscored the intense competition and shifting dynamics in the 2025 F1 season. McLaren's internal battle intensified with Norris's ascendance and Piastri's unexpected slump, while Red Bull's strategic use of Tsunoda highlighted team-first priorities. The persistent issues at Aston Martin and Alpine, alongside safety concerns for marshals, painted a comprehensive picture of the challenges and triumphs across the grid. The championship narrative is far from settled, with several teams and drivers facing pivotal moments in the remaining races.

What's next:

The F1 circus now moves to Brazil, a circuit known for its unique challenges and often unpredictable weather. All eyes will be on Piastri to see if he can rebound on a grippier track and reclaim his form, crucial for his championship aspirations. McLaren will aim to maintain their momentum, while Red Bull will look to solidify Verstappen's lead. Teams like Aston Martin and Alpine will be desperate for a breakthrough to salvage their seasons, and the FIA will be under scrutiny to ensure no repeat of the safety incident involving marshals.