How F1’s top teams adapted their cars to Mexico’s unique demands

At 2285m above sea-level, the rarified air creates a significant challenge in respect of the car’s aerodynamics, cooling requirements and the performance envelope of the power unit.

Even Red Bull, which has rarely had to sacrifice aerodynamic performance by opening up its bodywork as much as rivals, erred on the side of caution in Mexico.

It fitted an additional louvred panel atop the right-hand sidepod bodywork. Its addition continues an…