Formula 1 is back after a brief hiatus for the sixth round of the season in Miami. This event marks the first of the year`s races in the United States and is the second sprint race weekend.
Last year, the race held in the Sunshine State delivered an exciting spectacle that proved to be a turning point in the season, highlighted by Lando Norris securing his maiden Formula 1 victory.
Norris` triumph ended McLaren`s significant winless streak, their previous victory dating back to the 2021 Italian Grand Prix with Daniel Ricciardo.
The weather forecast predicts unsettled conditions throughout the weekend, with potential for showers and light rain from Friday to Sunday. Temperatures are expected to be warm, up to 27°C, and humidity could reach 69% on Sunday.
Latest News Highlights
Recent news includes Lewis Hamilton`s involvement in the `F1` movie project, analysis of which drivers might need a reset after a busy start to the season, and comments from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem regarding potential changes to misconduct penalties.
Circuit Stats and History
The Miami International Autodrome is a relatively new circuit, having only joined the Formula 1 calendar in 2022. It has hosted just three races so far.
The circuit is built around the Hard Rock Stadium complex, home to the NFL`s Miami Dolphins. It operates as a temporary street circuit.
Its design process involved extensive planning and testing, with 36 proposed layouts considered before organizers finalized the 19-turn circuit. This layout incorporates the stadium complex and is designed to emulate a street circuit atmosphere.
Miami is one of twelve distinct locations in the United States to have hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix. Beyond the racing action, the city is famous for its vibrant energy, hot and humid weather, and renowned sandy beaches.
Miami Grand Prix Key Details
First held in: 2022
Current Lap Record: 1:29.708 (Max Verstappen, 2023)
Race Distance: 57 laps, covering 308 km (5.4 km per lap)
Most Victories: Max Verstappen (2 wins in 2022, 2023). Lando Norris is the only other winner (2024).
Most Pole Positions: Shared among Charles Leclerc (2022), Sergio Perez (2023), and Max Verstappen (2024), each with one pole.
Unique Aspects: Despite some criticism of its layout, the circuit`s use of the Hard Rock Stadium complex as the paddock offers a distinctive element. While the event has a strong VIP focus, several grandstands provide excellent viewing opportunities.
Driver Perspective: Lewis Hamilton famously commented that driving the circuit “reminds me of being in a B&Q (hardware store) car park when I was six or seven years old, in a go kart, going in between cars.”
Recommended Viewing Spot: The grandstand at Turns 11 and 12. Although a slower part of the track, this section, particularly the long right-hander, offers potential for overtakes and close racing.
What Happened Last Year?
Last year`s Miami race proved to be a pivotal moment, significantly altering the season`s narrative. Lando Norris achieved his long-awaited first Formula 1 victory on his 110th Grand Prix start, bringing an end to Max Verstappen`s dominant streak. Upon crossing the finish line, Norris exclaimed to his McLaren team, “About time, huh?”
Max Verstappen finished in second place, with Charles Leclerc securing third. This result marked the beginning of what developed into an exciting championship contest between Norris and Verstappen.
True to his promise, McLaren team principal Zak Brown celebrated the team`s victory by getting a tattoo commemorating the event.
Who Will Win?
Miami was the circuit where McLaren`s performance truly aligned last year. Although circumstances have evolved since then, there`s strong reason to anticipate the papaya-liveried cars being highly competitive this weekend.
Oscar Piastri is currently performing exceptionally well, but our prediction favors Lando Norris repeating his triumph from a year ago, securing a crucial win.
How the Championships Look
In the drivers` championship, Oscar Piastri has established a significant lead, holding a 10-point advantage over his teammate Lando Norris. Piastri currently has three victories compared to Norris`s one.
McLaren also holds a substantial lead in the constructors` championship, ahead of Mercedes by 77 points. Red Bull sits in third place, 11 points ahead of Ferrari, who are facing challenges.
Session Times
All times are in BST (British Summer Time).
Friday
Free Practice One: 17:30-18:30 BST
Sprint Qualifying: 21:30-22:14 BST
Saturday
Sprint Race: 17:00-18:00 BST
Grand Prix Qualifying: 21:00-22:00 BST
Sunday
Grand Prix Race Start: 21:00 BST
