We reported earlier this week that the Mexican Grand Prix will return to the Formula 1 calendar in 2015, and it has now been confirmed during a press conference at the Banamex Centre in Mexico City.
The race is due to take place at a soon-to-be revamped Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez circuit, which organisers say will feature renovated pit buildings, spectator stands and minor track alterations to meet the FIA’s Grade 1 safety standard.
A return to Mexico had been mooted for some time, with it even making it onto the provisional 2014 calendar before it was dropped. That won’t happen this time though according to organising president Alejandro Soberon.
“Start your engines, F1 will return to Mexico next year. This is Mexico’s time,” he said during the conference.
Bernie Ecclestone wasn’t present at the official announcement on Wednesday, but sent the following statement.
“I am pleased to confirm that F1 will be back in Mexico City in 2015.
“I feel it is the right for F1 for and Mexico and I’m sure it will be to the benefit of both for many years. I look forward to welcoming you all to this global event next year.”
The event has the backing of Carlos Slim Domit, son of one of the world’s richest men, and Tavo Hellmund who masterminded the United States GP in Austin.
“Ever since Bernie and I began working on a race at Austin, it’s been a dream of mine to help Formula One return to Mexico,” added Hellmund.
“This announcement has therefore been years in the making, but we’ve gradually been able to assemble all the right pieces. I’m absolutely delighted.”
The race will likely see the calendar expand to 20 or more events in 2015 as a street race in Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku, is expected to join to the roster too. If the calendar exceeds 20 events, it must be signed off by all 11 teams, each of which will likely receive a financial incentive.
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