Verstappen's qualifying time in Mexico could be significantly slower

Max Verstappen's potential qualifying time for the Mexico City Grand Prix may be around 1:18.155, more than two seconds slower than his 2025 lap time of 1:16.070. This prediction is based on the new 2026 regulations, which have seen Formula 1 cars generally slower by an average of 2.88% this season. The changes in power units and aerodynamic rules are affecting performance, particularly on long straights. Red Bull Racing has made progress with adjustments to their car, but challenges remain as seen in prior races, like the United States Grand Prix where Verstappen finished third. The actual impact of the regulations on Verstappen's qualifying performance at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is still to be determined as the race weekend unfolds.

• 2:03 PMYahoo Sports — Verstappen could be much slower in Mexico: Predictions produce unusual lap time