Mexico Grand Prix Thrives Despite Sergio Perez's Absence, Celebrating 10th Anniversary with Sellout Crowd

The Formula 1 Mexico Grand Prix is celebrating its 10th anniversary with another sellout crowd, definitively disproving any concerns that Sergio Perez's absence might impact attendance. The Mexico City race at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez has rapidly become an F1 cornerstone, initially boosted by strong national support for home hero Perez as he ascended to become a multiple Grand Prix winner.

Why it matters:

• The Mexico Grand Prix's continued sell-out success, even without its national star on the grid, highlights the event's deep integration into the F1 calendar and its strong appeal beyond individual drivers.
• This resilience demonstrates a successful diversification of its audience and marketing strategy, making it less vulnerable to changes in driver lineups.
• The event's consistent performance underscores F1's global growth and its ability to cultivate enduring fan bases in key markets.

The Details:

• Unfazed by Absence: Despite Perez's departure from Red Bull at the end of last year, ticket sales had already reached 90% and steadily continued to sell out, with over 400,000 fans expected across the race weekend.
• Promoter Confidence: Alejandro Soberon Kuri, CEO of promoter CIE, noted that while Perez's uncertain status and a less-than-superb season initially caused some uncertainty, the only real change was the pacing of ticket sales, which still reached a sold-out status.
• Fan Loyalty: Federico Gonzalez Compean, managing director of the race, emphasized the deep-rooted affection Mexican fans have for the event, noting zero refund requests despite the fluidity of driver lineups. He also highlighted strong government support for the race.
• Diversified Marketing: Promoters intentionally split marketing efforts to target three distinct segments:
  • 33% Mexico City patrons
  • 33% Mexico national patrons
  • 33% international patrons This strategy reduces dependence on any single market and leverages F1's broad appeal, boosted by initiatives like Drive to Survive and the upcoming F1 movie.
• Global Appeal: The event has successfully attracted new international fans, including more Argentinians following Franco Colapinto's emergence and an increasing number of Canadian fans seeking alternatives to U.S. races.
• Infrastructure Investment: CIE plans to "keep investing" in the 4.4km circuit, with discussions for extending the contract beyond 2028 expected to begin early next year, aiming to always be three to five years ahead in planning.

What's next:

While the Mexico Grand Prix has proven its self-sufficiency, promoters are enthusiastic about Sergio Perez's confirmed return to the grid next year with newcomer Cadillac.

• The return of a Mexican driver with a major manufacturer like Cadillac is expected to further boost local fan engagement and interest.
• Discussions are also underway with Audi, indicating a potentially growing presence of new manufacturers and further opportunities for the race.
• The event's continued success and strategic planning position Mexico City as a vital and economically successful stop on the F1 calendar for the foreseeable future.