Hakkinen: Mexican GP’s return only positive for F1

Two-time Formula 1 world champion Mika Hakkinen has become the latest figure to deem the return of the Mexican Grand Prix to have been a resounding success, believing that its return is wholly positive for the sport.

Last weekend’s Mexican Grand Prix was the first to be held since 1992, returning at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City.

Nico Rosberg followed in Nigel Mansell’s footsteps by winning the race ahead of Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton, but much of the focus afterwards was on the unique atmosphere that the sell-out crowd had offered in Mexico.

Writing in his blog for Hermes, Hakkinen said that successful events such as the one in Mexico can only be good for F1.

“That was certainly a fantastic show in Mexico,” the Finn said. “When I was there myself at the beginning of the 1990s and took part in the races there, there was always an incredible atmosphere.

“That Mexico is now on the calendar can only be a positive thing for F1. With so many spectators there and a good atmosphere, that motivates drivers and racing teams.”

Hakkinen raced in the final two Mexican Grands Prix before its removal from the calendar for the 1993 season, recording a best finish of sixth at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in 1992 for Team Lotus.

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