How does the thin air in Mexico City impact ball flight?

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Thin air at Mexico City makes the ball fly faster and travel farther

At the 2,240 metres (7,350 feet) altitude of Mexico City, the air is thinner, so each breath delivers less oxygen to the body. That same thinner air also affects the ball, making it travel faster and farther during play. England’s preparations include the expectation that the ball will fly differently at Azteca Stadium.
Mexico City’s 2,240-metre altitude changes air density around the pitch
The pitch at Azteca Stadium sits 2,240 metres (7,350 feet) above sea level. At that height, the air is thinner, which is described as reducing the oxygen delivered with each breath.
The ball is expected to move faster and cover more distance
Thinner air is specifically linked to the ball travelling faster and farther in Mexico City. The England camp has also been told to expect a measurable difference in ball flight, with Tuchel saying it could be “five yards (metres) more.”
The “ball will fly differently” is part of England’s match preparation
Tuchel said the altitude problem is one England cannot physically adapt to within four days. He framed the challenge around unique conditions in Mexico City, stating that the ball will fly differently for the match at Azteca.
Comparison with a lower-altitude venue highlights the altitude effect
By contrast, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta is just over 300 metres above sea level. The reference point underscores that Mexico City’s 2,240 metres is far higher, where thinner air is expected to change how the ball travels compared with lower-altitude conditions.

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How does the thin air in Mexico City impact ball flight?

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