Lowe and the specific challenge for drivers in Mexico

Popular success for its return to the world championship calendar in 2015, the Mexican Grand Prix 2016 edition can already prove decisive in terms of the attribution of the world title.

A victory for Nico Rosberg coupled with a retirement from his last rival and teammate Lewis Hamilton would automatically hand the crown to the German driver, who holds a 26-point lead heading into the Mexican capital this weekend.

Located at an altitude of 2250 m, the Hermanos Rodriguez route also offers a real challenge for drivers and single-seaters. With reduced atmospheric pressure, aerodynamic downforce is particularly reduced, when the Pirelli rubbers are in high demand.

“This results in a reduction in aerodynamic forces, both on downforce and drag, while the turbo/hybrid Power Unit is still able to deliver its normal level of power, comments Paddy Lowe, in charge of technique within the reigning three-time world champion team.

The consequence is that this circuit is hard on the tires, as the grip levels are very low, and hard on the brakes due to high speeds combined with low levels of cooling and drag. »

Pilots must therefore, even more than usual, be careful with their mounts and careful with their steering. “There are a lot of things to manage over the weekend to simply keep both cars “in good health”, continues Lowe.

At the same time, it is difficult for the pilots, because they operate with levels of support equivalent to Monza on a much more winding circuit. This may give some “headaches” for them behind the wheel, but there is the potential for a great race. »