Chaos at the start: cross-border racing

The race in Mexico started chaotically. At the first corner, several drivers went over the grass. That resulted in position gains for some. Others felt it was unjustified.

Hamilton said he was penalised for staying within the limits. Fernando Alonso said he lost several places while opponents seemed to win several rows over the grass. The opening sequence at the circuit has been a source of problems for years. As a result, the stewards face tough decisions.

The near miss with marshals

There was also a dangerous situation with marshal personnel at the exit of Turn 1. A driver passed it just in time as marshals walked across the tarmac to remove debris. The organisers later apologised.

Fortunately, it ended well. But the incident leaves obvious safety questions. Better communication is needed so that something like this cannot happen again.

Piastri struggles, Norris benefits

Oscar Piastri is currently going through a difficult period. His lead in the championship was lost. In Mexico, he was clearly slower than teammate Lando Norris. The difference was not tied to one corner, but sat throughout the lap time.

McLaren thinks the low grip and specific conditions in Austin and Mexico don't suit Piastri. If that is true, the problem may disappear at other circuits. But if the weakness remains, his title ambition is seriously threatened.

Norris has the perfect weekend

Lando Norris, on the other hand, had a complete weekend. He was fast in all sessions, showing how well he can handle the low-grip conditions. An extensive debrief after previous races helped him regain his touch.

That form gives Norris momentum in the title race and strengthens his position within McLaren.

Red Bull praises Tsunoda, result says otherwise

Red Bull praised Yuki Tsunoda for his strong pace in qualifying and early race stages. Technically, he was close to Max Verstappen. Yet he ended up 11th. Team tactics played a role: Tsunoda stayed out longer to support Verstappen's strategy.

In addition, Tsunoda suffered a very slow pit stop, causing him to miss out on points. The team speaks of progress, but his place is not yet secure. The priority remains Verstappen's title fight.

Haas tackles it well

Haas showed in Mexico that it can do the right thing when it counts. The updated VF-25 was strong in race trim. Ollie Bearman drove a flawless race and finished as the best result ever for him and the team.

Haas opted for two pit stops and temporarily lost positions. That was a calculated choice. The risk of losing performance with worn tyres would have been too great. Fourth place also brings important points in the battle for sixth place in the constructors' championship.

Aston Martin and Alpine lag behind

Aston Martin has been struggling in Mexico for years. The circuit does not suit the balance and efficiency of their car. This season yielded no points again. Stroll spun on the opening lap and Alonso had to retire due to overheated brakes.

Alpine had an even worse weekend. Both cars were slow and mostly had to make room for the leaders. The team chose not to intervene with risky team orders. Expectations for Brazil are low, even though that circuit was the model for success last year.

Bortoleto fights back and earns point

Gabriel Bortoleto started low due to problems in qualifying. In the race, he showed fighting spirit. From 16th place, he worked his way to the front and secured a point for Sauber.

His race was tactical and aggressive. A bold overtaking move on an opponent earned him tenth place. That point is valuable in the battle for sixth position among constructors.

Summary: What does this weekend take us through?

  • The opening chaos in Mexico highlights the need for better enforcement of track limits and starting behaviour.
  • Safety around the track is improvement point number one after the incident with marshals.
  • Piastri needs to regain his form soon; otherwise he may lose his title chances.
  • Norris shows top form and relies on good communication with his team.
  • Red Bull sees progress with Tsunoda, but results remain important.
  • Haas made wise choices and is now reaping the benefits.

Mexico was a race with many political and sporting implications. The results change the proportions in the championship. The coming races will determine whether this shift is permanent.

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