Formula 1 is back after a brief hiatus for Round 6 in Miami, marking the first of the season`s U.S. events and the second Sprint weekend.
The race in the Sunshine State last year proved to be a thrilling spectacle, becoming a defining moment of the season`s narrative when Lando Norris achieved his maiden Formula 1 victory.
This victory ended a significant winning drought for McLaren, whose previous triumph was at the 2021 Italian Grand Prix with Daniel Ricciardo.
The reigning world champions have successfully built on their achievements from 2024 and are positioned to lead both championships at the start of the season.
The weather forecast suggests unsettled conditions with potential showers and light rain expected from Friday through Sunday. Temperatures are predicted to be warm, reaching up to 27°C, with humidity potentially climbing to 69% on Sunday.
Jump to a section: Circuit history & stats | 2024 race recap | Race predictions | How to watch | Championship standings
Latest News Highlights
- How Lewis Hamilton aided Damson Idris and Brad Pitt in bringing the `F1` movie to life.
- The demanding beginning to the F1 season, featuring five races within six weeks, has felt particularly intense; which drivers could benefit from a reset?
- FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem indicated he is considering `improvements` to rules that impose severe penalties for misconduct, such as using foul language.
- Listen to the preview for the race and discussion from ESPN`s F1 team in Miami.
Circuit Stats and History
The Miami International Autodrome`s history is brief, having hosted only three races since joining the Formula 1 calendar in 2022.
The venue is centered around the Hard Rock Stadium complex, home to the NFL team Miami Dolphins, and features a temporary street circuit layout.
The design process for the circuit involved extensive trial and error, with 36 proposed layouts considered before organizers finalized the 19-turn track. This design utilizes the stadium complex while providing a street circuit atmosphere.
Miami stands as one of twelve different U.S. locations that have hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix. Beyond the racing, the city is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, hot and humid weather, and renowned sandy beaches.
Miami Grand Prix Facts
First race: 2022
Lap record: 1:29.708 – Max Verstappen (2023)
Laps: 57 laps of 5.4 km (Total distance: 308 km)
Most wins: Max Verstappen with two (2022, 2023). Lando Norris (2024) is the only other winner.
Most poles: One each for Charles Leclerc (2022), Sergio Perez (2023), and Max Verstappen (2024).
What makes it special: Although the circuit layout has received criticism, the use of the Miami Dolphins` Hard Rock Stadium as the paddock area is unique. The event targets a VIP audience, but some grandstands also offer good views.
What the drivers say: Regarding the circuit, Lewis Hamilton commented, “It reminds me of being in a B&Q (hardware store) carpark 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. While it`s a slower part of the track, there`s potential for overtakes and close wheel-to-wheel action through the long right-hand corner.
What Happened Last Year (2024)?
Miami was the race that significantly altered the season`s direction. On his 110th attempt, Lando Norris finally secured his inaugural Formula 1 victory, ending Max Verstappen`s dominant streak. “About time, huh?” Norris remarked to his McLaren team upon crossing the finish line.
Verstappen finished second, with Charles Leclerc in third. This race marked the beginning of what developed into a thrilling championship rivalry between Norris and Verstappen.
McLaren team principal Zak Brown followed through on his promise by getting a tattoo to commemorate the team`s victory.
Who Will Win?
Last year, Miami was the event where everything seemed to align perfectly for McLaren. Although much has changed since then, there`s every reason to anticipate the papaya-colored cars performing strongly this weekend.
While Oscar Piastri is currently in excellent form, we are predicting a victory for Norris, allowing him to replicate the success he enjoyed twelve months prior.
How the Championships Look
Oscar Piastri has surged ahead in the drivers` championship standings, holding a 10-point lead over his teammate Norris. Piastri boasts three wins compared to Norris` single victory.
Similarly, McLaren holds a significant 77-point advantage over Mercedes in the constructors` championship. Red Bull is currently in third place, 11 points ahead of a struggling Ferrari.
How to Watch the GP
Viewers in the U.S. can watch the event on ESPN and ESPN+. Check local listings for the specific schedule.
Live broadcast coverage in the U.K. is available on Sky Sports F1 and BBC Radio 5 Live.
For the latest news, in-depth analysis, and updates, follow the coverage provided by the F1 reporting teams.
Session times are listed below 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
- Qualifying: 21:00-22:00 BST
-
Sunday
- Race starts: 21:00 BST (Live text commentary will be available from 20:15 BST).
