Gasly expecting "difficult" Mexican Grand Prix

Toro Rosso driver Pierre Gasly has admitted he is expecting a "complicated" Mexican Grand Prix from a technical perspective.

The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez will be the venue for this weekend's Mexican Grand Prix and Gasly is expecting a difficult and complicated time for him and his Toro Rosso side.

Gasly admitted himself that it was a "long and difficult" United States Grand Prix, with the Toro Rosso man ending the race in 12th thanks to the disqualification of Esteban Ocon and Kevin Magnussen.

The soon-to-be Red Bull driver finished in P13 in last season's race in Mexico and Gasly cannot wait for this season's edition - with the Mexican fans being one of the "most passionate" set of fans.

"I finished 13th in last year's Mexican Grand Prix," Gasly told The Checkered Flag. "It is one of the nicest races of the year with a huge crowd of very enthusiastic fans and, thanks to them, the atmosphere is really incredible and special.

"The fact the race takes place around the time Mexico prepares for its 'Day of the Dead' festival also adds a special dimension to the weekend.

"Last year, I had a difficult time and for various reasons, I pretty much didn't do any running until the race itself - I didn't even take part in qualifying."

The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez is one of the highest tracks in the world - over 7,500 feet - which makes it more challenging for the cars to perform to their usual level.

"It's a complicated race from a technical point of view, mainly because of the altitude which affects everything - the engine, braking, reliability and you have much less grip, so it's harder to set the car up," Gasly explained.

"Physically, you are aware that you're talking in less oxygen, so it is a bit tougher than events at sea level. But the track doesn't have too many heavy braking points or high-G corners, so it is not actually that physically demanding."