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Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton predicts 'unusual experience' as F1 drivers set for Mexico challenge

Lewis Hamilton is hoping to get in the fight at the fight at the front of the field this weekend in Mexico.

Hamilton Austin
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Lewis Hamilton has stated the downforce limitations in Mexico this weekend will result in an "unusual experience" for the drivers.

The F1 cars this year have had downforce slashed compared to 2025 as part of the new technical regulations in play.

The effect is set to be even more obvious this weekend in Mexico City, whose high altitude creates a unique environment for the drivers to compete in.

Due to the low air density, less downforce is generated compared to other locations on the F1 calendar.

Hamilton is expecting that the drivers will have a much different experience behind the wheel p compared to F1's last visit to Mexico City 12 months ago.

"Someone just said that it's going to be good for our car, but I really have no idea," Hamilton told media including RacingNews365.

"Everyone is going to be max downforce here. It will be an unusual experience for us all, because it's like 25 or 30 per cent less downforce than we had the last time we drove here, or even in Monza, for example."

[Article continues below]

Hamilton thinks Ferrari car 'should be good' in Mexico

Hamilton has not enjoyed a positive experience behind the wheel of late, scoring just one podium in the last nine races.

Team-mate Charles Leclerc has bagged two runner-up finishes at the last two events, highlighting the existing potential in the Ferrari car.

While Hamilton has not had an easy time in recent rounds, the seven-time champion is confident it can compete towards the front this weekend.

"So whether we can get the tyre switched on, I think the car should be good here.

"Being that we have [high] altitude, hopefully straight-line speed won't be as affected as it is on some of the other places where, at sea level, the drag is significant.

"I'm hoping that we are able to continue on the strong performance that we had last year and bring it into this weekend."

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