Mexican Grand Prix extended to 2028 despite Sergio Perez’s departure
Despite the impending absence of its iconic driver Sergio Perez from the grid, the Mexican Grand Prix is set to sign a new contract extension with Formula 1, until 2028. Mexico City's head of government, Clara Brugada, confirmed this this week.
During a press conference held on Thursday, April 24, Clara Brugada, head of the Mexico City government, announced big news. “Next week, we will sign the agreement with F1,” she stated when asked about the future of the Grand Prix.
The announcement leaves little room for doubt: the current contract, which extends until the end of 2025, is expected to be extended by three additional years, keeping the race on the calendar until 2028.
A race now independent of the figure of Sergio Pérez
Long considered the main driver of the enthusiasm around the Mexican Grand Prix, Sergio Pérez is no longer on the starting grid. Released by Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season after disappointing performances, the Guadalajara driver has taken a step back and is contemplating his future, potentially alongside Cadillac.
Despite this, the organizers insist on the solidity of the Mexican audience. The desire for the race remains without him, states a press release. The strategy of diversifying ticket sales, both in Mexico and internationally, seems to have built a loyal fan base, independent of the presence of a local driver.
A private support maintained since 2019
Since the federal government stopped funding the event in 2018, a private trust, supported by the local government, has been maintaining the race. After an initial five-year contract, renewed in 2019 for three years, a new agreement had allowed F1 to remain in Mexico until 2025. This continuity now seems assured until 2028.
The Mexican Grand Prix has established itself as one of the most festive events on the F1 calendar, attracting over 300,000 spectators each year. Its extension until 2028 confirms Formula 1’s desire to strengthen its presence in Latin America, despite the absence of Sergio Pérez on the grid.
