The initiative  showcases the hashtag #BridgesNotWalls on social media, with Perez positioned as a figurehead for the campaign, and banners denouncing Trump’s stance hung from bridges all around the country.

Since its return to the Formula 1 calendar in 2015, the Mexican Grand Prix  has enjoyed tremendous success, thanks in no small part to the presence on the grid of Force India’s Perez.

“World class international events such as the Formula 1 Gran Premio de Mexico provide an excellent opportunity to showcase to the world what the Mexican people are capable of achieving when we work together,” Perez said.

“Through this unique global platform, Mexico has been shown as a warm and welcoming destination. The 2015 and 2016 races were award-winning, 2017 promises to be even more memorable.”

The Mexican driver showed his patriotic mettle last year when he ditched a personal sponsor for tweeting a disparaging remark linked to the construction of the wall.