The Formula 1 Mexico Grand Prix is observing its decade milestone with yet another capacity audience, demonstrating that apprehensions regarding the consequences of Sergio Perez’s non-participation were unwarranted.
The Mexico City competition, hosted at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, has promptly evolved into a crucial fixture on the F1 calendar, propelled by intense national zeal to rally behind local favorite Perez, who matured into a multiple grand prix victor in his thirties.
However, even the absence of the Guadalajara native appears not to have diminished the race’s celebratory atmosphere, nor has it significantly impacted ticket sales. When Perez’s departure from Red Bull was announced at the close of the preceding year, ticket sales had already surpassed the 90 percent threshold, but the remaining inventory steadily continued to be purchased, with projections of over 400,000 spectators throughout the weekend.
“It presented a unique scenario for us this year, given Checo’s absence, a figure greatly cherished by Mexican enthusiasts,” remarked Alejandro Soberon Kuri, CEO of CIE, the race’s promoter, in discussions with selected media outlets including Autosport.
“There was substantial ambiguity regarding Checo’s continuation, and his season wasn’t particularly outstanding, which prompted considerable contemplation among individuals. Perhaps the sole alteration this year was the tempo of ticket sales. We achieved 90 percent sales early on, and then gradually attained the fully sold-out [status].”
Federico Gonzalez Compean, the race’s managing director, elaborated: “Mexican supporters are notably vocal; should they decide against attending, they promptly communicate their intentions and seek refunds. Not a single instance [of such a request] occurred.
“I believe the race holds a profound significance in the hearts of Mexican followers, and the government remains steadfast in its commitment to providing support.”
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls Team, Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull Racing
Photo by: Colin McMaster / LAT Images via Getty Images
Mexico’s sustained triumph is partially a consequence of the broader expansion and diversification of F1. Still, the organizers have strategically oriented their marketing endeavors toward a tripartite division encompassing local enthusiasts from the capital, nationwide clientele, and international travelers, thereby diminishing reliance on specific segments and bolstering the tourism sector.
“I observe considerable transformation in the audience’s composition since 2015,” Gonzalez noted. “Over the past decade, we’ve discerned a transition from exclusively hardcore devotees to incorporating Drive to Survive enthusiasts or individuals intrigued by the emergent F1 film.”
“Our objective is to attain a distribution of 33% Mexico City attendees, 33% Mexico-wide patrons, and 33% international participants. The Mexico City market alone could potentially absorb the entire grand prix ticket inventory, but we consciously avoid facilitating such a scenario.”
Soberon elaborated: “The Mexican market, overall, has experienced phenomenal growth in the preceding half-decade. In the realm of entertainment within our business, ticket sales have nearly tripled across the nation. Presently, Mexico likely ranks among the top three or four countries globally for the volume of tickets sold and overall performance.
“Shakira recently performed a dozen sold-out concerts in this stadium, with the potential to sell an additional five. Her total ticket sales in the country amounted to 1.2 million.”
Sergio Perez returns to the grid with Cadillac in 2026
Photo by: Luke Hales / Getty Images
Within Mexico’s international contingent, the event has witnessed a rise in Argentinian attendance following Franco Colapinto’s participation. Promoters also indicate successful targeting of Canadian enthusiasts who have become increasingly cautious about visiting US races, citing prevailing political tensions between the two nations.
“We’re noticing a greater presence of Canadian flags, and we’re delighted to welcome them all,” Gonzalez commented. “The market is expanding and evolving; we observe increased participation from women and [younger demographics] in ticket purchases.”
While this year’s ticketing accomplishment, despite Perez’s absence, instills confidence in the event’s independent viability, Soberon and Gonzalez are understandably pleased about the 35-year-old’s prospective return to the grid next year with newcomer Cadillac.
“We’re at least preparing a new suite for Cadillac next year. Preliminary discussions with Audi have also transpired, suggesting further benefits,” Gonzalez disclosed.
Soberon added, “It will require some time, but the inclusion of a team under the General Motors banner is promising and will likely resonate favorably with Mexican enthusiasts.”
CIE commits to “continued investment” in the 4.4km circuit, with initial discussions anticipated next year concerning the extension of the current contract, which is set to expire in 2028.
“We’re content with our presence on the calendar until 2028. We’ve collectively pledged to initiate early discussions next year regarding the long-term prospects. Our objective is to consistently maintain a foresight of three to five years,” Soberon stated.
“Mexico City constitutes an optimal destination for F1, and it’s demonstrably a financial accomplishment.”
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– The Autosport.com Team
