Mix-up means that Colton Herta does not yet have the required number of points for his superlicence.

In order to qualify, a driver needs 40 points, and at the start of 2026 the American had 35 based on where he finished in the IndyCar championship in the three previous seasons - 10th in 2023, second in 2024 and seventh last year.

On arrival in Mexico, it was assumed that the 40 points was a mere formality as Herta had 39.

However, it was discovered that in fact he only has 38, which means he must complete a further 100 kms in the Cadillac next weekend in Brazil.

It was hoped that his season in F2 would provide the necessary number of points but in truth it has been a disaster and his failure to finish in the top ten means that he has had to rely on his FP1 outings.

Thus far this year he has participated in FP1 at Barcelona, Budapest, Monza and Austin, though in Italy he didn't complete the required milage to qualify for points.

"I was under the impression coming into this weekend if I do this, I get the superlicence," he told ESPN. "So I guess we have to wait and see, I think I'm in the same boat as you guys.

"For me the biggest thing has been to not worry about that stuff and drive the car," he added, "so that's kind of what I focused on because it has been a discussion in my career for a lot of years now."

Should he qualify, the American will almost certainly line-up alongside at Cadillac next season, replacing Valtteri Bottas.

Check out our Friday gallery from Mexico City here.