Verstappen, Leclerc Lead Mexico City GP Practice Amid Low Track Grip

The first day of practice at the Mexico City Grand Prix saw multiple teams assess their cars and tyre compounds under challenging conditions including a dusty track and higher temperatures. Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing set the fastest time, demonstrating strong single-lap pace but expressing concern over long-run grip and race pace. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc ran extensive tests with three different tyre compounds and welcomed rookie Antonio Fuoco, who participated in FP1 to gather data and assist with simulator correlation. Mercedes drivers, including Kimi Antonelli and George Russell, showed competitive pace with positive feedback on car performance, though adjustments are planned for upcoming sessions. McLaren also gathered valuable data with Patricio O'Ward substituting for Lando Norris in FP1 and indicated a reasonably competitive long-run pace heading into qualifying. Overall, teams are focusing on adapting to the track's evolving conditions and optimising setups for race day performance.