Mexico: pre-qualifying 2021

Russell has a 5 place grid penalty for a gearbox change.

It’s also ironic that Mercedes have raised Senna-Prost and crashing, given that it’s their man who punted Verstappen off in the UK. I suspect this is actually a quite smart (or cynical, as you like) mind game to needle Verstappen/Red Bull.

Also, China isn't on the grid next year but has been confirmed as sticking around until at least 2025. 

The top three in first practice were separated by just over a tenth of a second, with Bottas fastest, then Hamilton, then Verstappen. Perez was only another tenth further back, with Gasly over six-tenths off the ultimate pace. The Frenchman was followed by Sainz, Alonso, Leclerc, Ocon, and Vettel.

In second practice had Verstappen faster than Bottas by four-tenths, with Hamilton another tenth further back. Perez was less than a tenth behind the Briton, and half a second ahead of Sainz. Then came Gasly, Leclerc, Tsunoda, Vettel, and Alonso.

Very much looking like the top two teams are way ahead of the rest. Strategy could well end up determining how things go.

Because third practice and qualifying is again later than normal (and preferable) I’m putting this up now rather than waiting. Likewise, it’s probable there won’t be a post-race ramble.

On betting: quite tempted by Bottas each way at 11, though I expect Hamilton will have the edge (and Verstappen likewise). Hmm. Sainz to be winner without the rest would intrigue me but he’s only 3 and that’s probably too tight for consideration. The 2.15 for Sainz to beat Leclerc may be more appealing, though Leclerc usually seems to have the edge.

I’d say if you have a free bet the Sainz to beat Leclerc or Bottas each way bets are worth a shot, but I’m not betting/tipping with my own cash on qualifying.

I believe qualifying is at 8pm UK time, with the race from 7pm.

Morris Dancer

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