Formula 1 heads to the second round of the Americas triple-header at the circuit named after brothers Pedro and Ricardo Rodríguez in Mexico City, a unique venue on the calendar due to its altitude of over 2,000 metres above sea level.
For the 2026 edition of the Grand Prix, Pirelli has selected the softest trio in its range: C3 as Hard, C4 as Medium and C5 as Soft. This marks a different choice from last year, when a compound step was attempted with the C2 as Hard, a solution that ultimately proved less appealing from a performance perspective than the softer alternatives.
The main novelty for the weekend is the resurfacing of a large portion of the circuit. The work covered the section from Turn 16 to Turn 1 and the stretch from Turn 7 to Turn 16, leaving only the first sector largely unchanged. New asphalt is normally associated with higher grip levels and lower roughness compared to an older surface. However, it will be important to assess its actual characteristics during the opening stages of the weekend.
The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez has traditionally been one of the least demanding circuits on tyres. Its many low-speed corners and limited lateral loads tend to keep wear under control. At the same time, the thin air reduces the aerodynamic load generated by the cars, increasing tyre slip and making graining a factor to watch closely. With a new and smoother asphalt surface, this characteristic could play an even more significant role in shaping strategy.
In Mexico, the track is often quite dirty during the first sessions, with grip improving significantly lap after lap. This year, that evolution could be even more pronounced given the extensive resurfacing work.
From a strategic point of view, the circuit’s low severity and the behaviour of the three compounds on tracks with similar characteristics could favour a one-stop race. Tyre management to extend stints will nevertheless remain an important factor, particularly considering that the rear axle is the most heavily stressed.
The difference between the various strategic options may depend more on the confidence a driver can extract from a particular compound than on any genuine tyre life limitation. As seen at several events this season, some teams may be more inclined towards the softer compounds in order to benefit from the additional grip available, while others may favour the consistency and stability offered by the Hard.
In any case, the Soft could once again play a central role. The C5 has demonstrated strong characteristics on low-severity circuits and could prove an attractive option not only in qualifying but also in the race, broadening the range of strategic possibilities compared to previous seasons.
Another aspect to monitor will be braking performance. The altitude reduces aerodynamic efficiency and can make the management of the heaviest braking zones more challenging. The long main straight leading into Turn 1 could increase the risk of lock-ups, especially during the early stages of the weekend when grip levels are still limited.
IN 2025
Last year’s grid was split between one-stop and two-stop strategies. Most drivers chose to start on the Soft tyre, while only six cars opted for the Medium and two for the Hard. The softest compound was also used by those running a two-stop race, fitting it for the final stint thanks to extremely low degradation and the absence of graining.
STATISTICS
This will be the sixth Grand Prix held under the Mexico City Grand Prix name. The Mexican race had previously been part of the World Championship for twenty editions as the Mexican Grand Prix, always at the Hermanos Rodríguez circuit, until 2019. After a one-year absence from the calendar, it returned in 2021 under its current title. At the Mexico City venue, the most successful driver is Max Verstappen with five victories, the same number of wins achieved by Red Bull.
PODIUM CAP SPECIAL EDITION
The Pirelli Podium Cap for the Mexico City Grand Prix celebrates Día de los Muertos, which falls on race Sunday. The special-edition cap, to be worn by the drivers on the podium, features a black base decorated with traditional Mexican artistic motifs. The Podium Cap was designed by Denis Dekovic and produced by Pirelli Design. This special edition is already available to purchase via Pirelli’s e-commerce platform: https://store.pirelli.com.
