A grief-stricken city unites to welcome Formula 1

What happened last September changed the lives of many people in Mexico City, but the country is showcasing its mettle and fortitude as F1 arrives at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

While the Mexican track and its infrastructure escaped damage, the densely populated city and its surrounding states suffered huge devastation from the recent 7.1 magnitude earthquake.

Relief efforts are still under way, but the country's spirit is on the rebound and the Mexican Grand Prix will offer the perfect opportunity for an entire nation to display its renewed sense of pride.

"It will give a lot of energy, having the Grand Prix in Mexico,” said Force India's Sergio Perez, who led a fundraising effort also supported by billionaire Carlos Slim's foundation.

"I think it’s good for the people to have a distraction, to have a moment of happiness."