Max Verstappen is on pole for the 2022 Mexico City Grand Prix ahead of both Mercedes. However, there are several factors that could make Sunday's race one of the best of the year.
Verstappen has qualified first for the Mexican Grand Prix for the first time in his career but the long distance to turn 1 has seen a change in the grid order when they arrive in the previous years. For example, last year we saw Verstappen overtake both Mercedes drivers at turn 1 from P3 on the grid which can easily be done this year by Lewis Hamilton with the slipstream effect.
Mercedes has also looked better in the race than they do in qualifying in 2022 but so has Red Bull. Ferrari qualified a surprising P5 and P7 as they were split by the Alfa Romeo of Valtteri Bottas.
Mercedes also has the advantage of '2 against 1' on Verstappen if Sergio Perez [in P4] is overtaken by a Ferrari off the start. Although, Ferrari's qualifying pace has been better than their race pace in 2022 so far this season so it could be a struggle for the Italian team.
Also, a safety car often appears during the Mexican Grand Prix which could change the race in favour of anyone depending on timing. Strategy will also be a key factor in tomorrow's race for both Mercedes and Red Bull and could decide who wins the 2022 Mexico City Grand Prix.