With the Mexican GP still almost a month away, there is already talk of a major new feature for the race weekend: the second free practice session (FP2) will last 90 minutes instead of the usual 60. This change was introduced to allow teams to test Pirelli tyres ahead of the 2025 season, adding a crucial element to a championship that approaches the final phase with a lot still at stake.
Pirelli test: a preview of the 2025 season
Pirelli has asked teams to dedicate part of FP2 at the Mexican GP to testing a new soft tyre compound, which will be introduced in 2025. It is not the first time that during a race weekend free practice is dedicated to tests of this type. The conditions in which the tests will be carried out in Mexico are particular. The altitude of Mexico City will influence the behavior of the cars and tires, providing Pirelli with fundamental data for the development of the tires.
The teams, on the other hand, will have to balance their race preparation with these tests, making FP2 a crucial session not only for Pirelli but also for the set-ups and strategies for the weekend.
A championship still open: the fight for the titles
The 2024 championship is entering its decisive phase. With six races remaining, both the drivers' and constructors' championships remain wide open. Max Verstappen, leader of the drivers' championship, has maintained a significant advantage over Lando Norris. However, McLaren has shown incredible pace in the last few races, closing the gap and creating the conditions for an exciting finale. However, a mistake could be costly: a retirement or a "zero" in the race could change the fate of the championship in an instant.
On the constructors' championship front, Ferrari continues to remain in the running. The performances of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz could be decisive in the final races to stop the advance of the McLaren and bring the Reds back to fight for the title. Mercedes, despite an up and down season, could also return to the forefront, focusing on developments and winning strategies for the final stretch of the championship.
Sergio Perez: Rumors of farewell to Mexico denied
Another hot topic surrounding the Mexican GP concerns the future of Sergio Perez. In recent days, there have been persistent rumors about his possible retirement from Formula 1. Some rumors suggested that the announcement could come during the race weekend in Mexico City, his home race. However, Perez recently denied these speculations through his social media channels.
Despite the difficulties encountered during the season and the ongoing discussions about his future at Red Bull, the Mexican driver has made it clear that his goal remains to compete at the highest level in Formula 1. His performance in the next races will be crucial to establish his future at the team. But for now, the hypothesis of a farewell in Mexico has been officially rejected.
A season finale full of unknowns
With the Mexican Grand Prix just around the corner, the atmosphere in the paddock is electric. The teams are working on the latest technical developments to best tackle the final six races. Meanwhile, the drivers are ready to play it all for the title. Every mistake, every strategic choice, could be decisive in a championship that, after years of dominance by one or two teams, is proving to be more competitive than ever.
The extended FP2 in Mexico represents another unknown. The data collected during this session, although focused on the 2025 tyre tests, could also provide valuable information for the race itself, on a demanding circuit like Mexico City.
