Formula 1

Mexican Grand Prix hoping to build on 2015 success

Published Nov. 15, 2016 1:57 p.m. ET

Samuel Reiman

While the Mexican Grand Prix last year was memorable for Nico Rosberg fans, with him just holding off Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton for the win, many remember it simply for the atmosphere surrounding the event after its 23-year hiatus.

Mariachi bands performed in the pit, fans were wearing Mexican wrestling masks and the crowd could be heard high above the sound of the cars as they rooted Mexican Force India driver Sergio Perez home to an eighth-place finish.

And the numbers don't lie.

336,174 attendees were at the race, making it the second-largest attended race in the championship, just behind Silverstone. 2,318 million impressions were made across social media from more than 87 million users from around the world. The race was broadcast in 185 countries across 119 TV stations, receiving 1,550 hours of global coverage. 13,500 jobs were created as a result of the event, generating income gains of more than $82.6 MDD. At the end of 2015, the FIA named the Mexican Grand Prix the "Best Event of the Year."

Later this month, Formula One will be back in action at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City with the 2016 Mexican Grand Prix taking place from Oct. 28-30. The Masters Historic Racing and Formula 4 support divisions will also be in action.

In addition, “F1ESTA,” as it is being called by promoters GRUPO CIE, will extend beyond the race and further into Mexican culture, food and travel, to help promote tourism to the country. Local restaurants will be designing special F1-themed menus, and organizers are also making an effort to help promote Mexico City’s local museums, beaches, destinations, and entertainment.

The Mexican Grand Prix will serve as round 19 of the 21-round season, with just two races left afterward in Brazil and Abu Dhabi.

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