'No excuses' for Carpentier

That's the tongue-in-cheek message from his friend and old Champ Car rival Christian Fittipaldi.

Carpentier will drive for Team Canada at the Mexican track, while Fittipaldi will be making his second start in the series for Team Brazil.

"At least Patrick's had his seat fitting before first practice, so he's one up on me from my experience in Indonesia!" joked the nephew of double world champion Emerson Fittipaldi.

"I've been through the steepest part of my learning curve, but Patrick's been driving for 2 million years so he doesn't need advice - or a babysitter!

"The young guys who have been running all season have an advantage over us, but we can't use that as an excuse."

Carpentier has taken over the drive despite Sean McIntosh's sensational victory from the back of the grid in Indonesia two weeks ago.

"I've already said thank you to Sean! He did a great job last time out," said Carpentier. "This looks like a lot of fun - the cars look like Atlantics on steroids!

"My plan is simply to get used to the car on Friday, improve on Saturday and then be ready for Sunday.

"A win is a big demand, but if I can run at the front I'll be happy."