Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez

Nestled within the vibrant Magdalena Mixhuca Sports City in Mexico City, the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is a legendary motorsport circuit with a rich history and unique character. Named in honor of the revered Mexican racing brothers, Ricardo and Pedro Rodríguez, the track offers a thrilling blend of high-speed sections and a technical infield, all set against a backdrop of passionate fans and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

The Track and Its Layout
At approximately 4.304 km (2.674 mi) in its current Formula 1 configuration, the circuit presents a fascinating challenge. The layout features one of the longest straights on the calendar, the 1.2 km main straight, where cars reach blistering speeds. This is followed by the twisty and technical infield section, which famously passes through the Foro Sol stadium—a former baseball arena—creating a spectacular and unique stadium-like atmosphere.

The most iconic corner in the track's history is the infamous "Peraltada," a high-speed, banked, 180-degree turn. While safety concerns led to a redesign that now bypasses the original Peraltada in favor of the stadium section, a small part of the legendary corner remains. The current layout tests a car's downforce and a driver's precision, particularly in the Esses and the tight stadium complex.

History
The circuit was originally built in 1959. It first hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix in 1962, a non-championship race, and became a full World Championship event the following year. The track's history is marked by periods of immense popularity and moments of tragedy. The deaths of both Ricardo and Pedro Rodríguez cemented their legacy and led to the track being renamed in their honor in 1972. The circuit hosted F1 until 1970, when safety concerns and overcrowding became a major issue. After a lengthy absence and a major refurbishment, it returned to the F1 calendar from 1986 to 1992, and then again in 2015, where it has since been a staple of the F1 season.

Interesting Facts
High Altitude: At over 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level, the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is the highest racetrack on the Formula 1 calendar. The thin air significantly impacts engine performance and a car's aerodynamic grip, forcing teams to run maximum downforce to compensate.

The Stadium Section: The Foro Sol stadium section is arguably the most famous part of the modern circuit. Tens of thousands of fans fill the stands to cheer on the drivers as they navigate the slow-speed section, creating an electric and raucous atmosphere unlike any other track.

Multi-Purpose Venue: Beyond Formula 1, the track hosts a variety of other motorsport events, including NASCAR and Formula E. It is also a major cultural hub, having hosted large-scale events like the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) music festival and even a mass given by Pope John Paul II in 1999.