F1 Mexican GP to go ahead after passing earthquake tests

The Formula 1 Mexican Grand Prix will go ahead as planned on 29 October despite the devastation caused by this week’s huge earthquake.

A 7.1 magnitude tremor hit Mexico City and its surrounding areas on Tuesday. USA Today reports that at least 270 people have been killed - and the death toll is expected to rise.

The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, which hosts the F1 Mexican Grand Prix, is located in Mexico City but did not suffer any damage, according to a report by Autosport.

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After the circuit passed two earthquake inspections, race organisers believe the Grand Prix “will take on added significance in the wake of this national disaster”.

Federico Gonzalez, managing director of the Mexican GP, said it was “lucky” that the circuit was not damaged and that the motorsport community’s main priority is the “recovery of the city”.

Gonzalez said: “We have been very lucky. We have examined the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez and we can confirm the track has suffered no damage and is in optimum condition ahead of the race.

“[But] our priority at the moment is the recovery of the city. We are united with the individuals and families affected. The Mexican spirit of humanity and determination are a force to be reckoned with and it’s heartening to see this in action across the city.

“As demonstrated during the two most recent editions of the Mexico Grand Prix, when the Mexican people come together we achieve incredible things.

“At this moment, we are all united and working together making sure we get through this.”

Chase Carey, Formula 1’s chairman and CEO, and FIA president Jean Todt joined drivers in paying tribute to those people affected by the earthquake.

Mexican driver Sergio Perez, who races for Force India, also pledged his support.

Formula1.com reports that Perez, 27, has donated an initial three million Mexican pesos (£125,000) to victims and has also formed an alliance with Mexican businessman Carlos Slim. The alliance will see donations to the driver’s personal foundation matched “fivefold”.

Perez wrote on social media: “I’m deeply concerned about what my country is living. It’s time to be united.”