Windsor compares Verstappen and Perez in Mexico: 'That is unusual'

The high-level circuit in Mexico City causes all teams to drive with around 20 per cent less downforce. Carlos Sainz was the fastest man in the first free practice, but Charles Leclerc was not far off his teammate. The Red Bull Racing drivers were also evenly matched on Friday. Peter Windsor analyses the practice session in Mexico.

"It was incredibly close between the two Ferrari drivers, and even closer between the two Red Bull drivers. Looks like Carlos is going for exactly the same approach this weekend [as in Austin]," Windsor begins in his new YouTube video.

Max Verstappen did not have a flawless Friday. The Dutchman made a few off-track trips including a spin. Over board radio, the driver complained about the grip on the track, although Verstappen was able to laugh about it.

"Max, as he does on Friday’s, that’s what great Grand Prix drivers do, Friday’s come along and they just sort of find their way. A bit like Charles Leclerc and Lewis to some extent when he was really quick in the Mercedes. They get it all right and sorted for Saturday, so it was one of those days for Max, just kind of enjoying himself with his gold helmet having clinched his second world championship," the Formula One expert continues.

Windsor compares Perez and Verstappen

Verstappen and Perez managed to record exactly the same time during the first free practice session. The teammates were equally fast in the first sector. Perez gains time in sector two, while Verstappen comes back in the third sector. The Mexican is all too keen to win at his home circuit, but Verstappen is also still motivated.

"[Verstappen was] three kilometres an hour quicker than Checo in a straight line, which is unusual. Normally Checo has the top speed advantage, but at the moment in Mexico it looks like Max could be running a little bit less wing, but to do a 20.9 in the last sector, he’s got to be running wing," says Windsor.