Max Verstappen and the McLaren drivers will continue to lock horns immediately next weekend, with the Mexico City Grand Prix on the calendar. Up next: The Autódromo Hermanos Rodriguez
After Verstappen gained important points on Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in the standings, the season continues this Sunday with the Mexico City Grand Prix
Unlike in Austin, it will be a regular weekend with three practice sessions. Several young drivers will have the opportunity to drive in FP1, including
Arvid Lindblad (Red Bull Racing) and
Jak Crawford (Aston Martin).
Starting times will be similar to those of the United States Grand Prix in terms of qualifying and the race.
Friday, 24 OctoberFP1: 19:30 - 20:30 BST (12:30 - 13:30 local time)
FP2: 23:00 - 0:00 BST (16:00 - 17:00 local time)
Saturday, 25 OctoberFP3: 18:30 - 19:30 BST (11:30 - 12:30 local time)
Qualifying: 22:00 - 23:00 BST (15:00 - 16:00 local time)
Sunday, 26 OctoberRace: 20:00 - 22:00 BST (14:00 - 16:00 local time)
Max Verstappen after his victory in Austin - Photo: Race Pictures
Norris chased by Ferrari duo, Verstappen and Piastri seek fightback
The McLaren driver made full use of his MCL39’s potential, taking a pole that was never really in doubt — except perhaps after Leclerc’s strong first attempt in Q3, which Norris promptly bettered on his final run.
Here’s what the Brit had to say after qualifying.
Meanwhile, Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri could manage only fifth and eighth respectively — results far below their pre-weekend expectations, giving Norris a huge opportunity heading into the Grand Prix.
Here’s what the Dutchman had to say after qualifying, while
the Australian admitted he’s lacked pace throughout the entire weekend so far.Finally, after qualifying, the top three were asked whether Verstappen and Piastri have a realistic chance of fighting back and rejoining the battle for victory despite starting further down the grid.
Here’s what they had to say.Media day at COTA
Verstappen reflected on top advisor Helmut Marko's previous claim that he lost interest over the middle part of the current
F1 season.
The Dutchman explained that was not the case.
He said in Mexico City. "No, I don't [agree]. Of course it's more enjoyable coming to the race weekends like this, knowing that you don't have a chance to win."
The Australian also reflected on the Turn 1 incident at the COTA Sprint, and
shared there will be no more repercussions at McLaren beyond the weekend in Austin.
He commented: "We're starting this weekend with a clean slate for both of us, just going out and racing, and see who can come out on top."
Verstappen is closing in on the two McLarens
Unlike last year in Mexico City, the Red Bull driver arrives as the chaser rather than the one being chased.
In 2024, he defended hard against Norris at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, which led to the notorious ‘outstanding penalty’ display on the broadcast.
Last season, Carlos Sainz won in Mexico, with Charles Leclerc finishing third for Ferrari. The Scuderia also showed promising pace at COTA.
| Year | Past Five Winners |
| 2024 | Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) |
| 2023 | Max Verstappen (Red Bull) |
| 2022 | Max Verstappen (Red Bull) |
| 2021 | Max Verstappen (Red Bull) |
| 2019 | Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) |
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