Organisers of the Mexican Grand Prix say the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriquez will be the second-fastest circuit on the F1 calendar behind Monza.
Mexico will host its first grand prix since 1992 on Oct. 30-Nov. 1 this year, with work on the revamped circuit set to be completed in September. Though the iconic high-speed Peraltada corner has been replaced with a tight stadium section at the end of the lap, the circuit features three long straights and has retained the high-speed Esses section in the middle sector.
Federico Gonzalez, managing director of race promoter CIE, says the circuit will be quicker than all its contemporaries except Monza - the fabled 'Temple of Speed'.
"The circuit will be the second quickest on the calendar, behind Monza," Gonzalez explained to ESPN. "We think this will heighten the driver experience and really make the circuit fun to drive from the moment first practice begins on the Friday.
"There have been changes made to the original circuit - including the loss of Peraltada - but we don't feel this will take away the challenge for the drivers and the enjoyment for the fans at watching the best in the world compete in Mexico."
Of the 110,000 fans expected, 25,000 will be seated in the final stadium section alone and Gonzalez thinks this new addition will prove to be popular with fans despite the fact it replaced Peraltada.
"The noise there is going to be incredible. I imagine every time Checo [Sergio Perez] drives through there, especially, will be incredible as he is like a national hero in Mexico. We know fans are upset to lose Peraltada but we are incredibly excited about the final section and the noise and party atmosphere the fans will generate. That part of the circuit should also provide a challenge for the drivers at the end of the lap."