Fórmula 1 brought forward the start of Miami’s GP. The main race, the fourth stage of the 2026 season, now starts at 2pm on Brasília. The change occurs because of a strong lightning storm forecast for late Sunday afternoon in the vicinity of Hard Rock Stadium.
The decision seeks to ensure that the test is carried out with the lowest possible risk of interruptions. The official statement from the category, FIA and event organizers highlights the safety of drivers, teams, fans and staff as a priority. Porsche Carrera Cup North America had the race canceled to free up space on the schedule.
Mudança on schedule seeks to avoid lightning
The weather forecast indicates a high probability of rain and thunderstorms from late afternoon. Leis venues prohibit outdoor events when there is lightning within about an 8-mile radius of the circuit. An interval of 30 seconds or less between thunder and lightning requires immediate suspension for at least 30 minutes.
The organization monitored weather updates throughout Saturday. Depois of meetings between FIA, Fórmula 1 and local promoter, the change was confirmed. The new start is scheduled for 1 pm local time on Miami. Isso gives a larger window to complete the 57 laps before the worst of the storm.
The asphalt of the Miami circuit has already shown difficulties in wet conditions in previous editions. The flat surface favors puddles of water, especially in sections under bridges. Pilotos report less grip and intense reflections on wet asphalt.
Grid starting with Antonelli on pole
Kimi Antonelli took pole position for the GP from Miami. The Mercedes driver recorded 1min27s798 in Saturday’s qualifying and will start at the front for the third consecutive time this season. Max Verstappen, from Red Bull, came second with 1min27s964. Charles Leclerc, from Ferrari, completed the front row with 1min28s143.
- Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
- Lando Norris (McLaren)
- George Russell (Mercedes)
Gabriel Bortoleto, the Brazilian on the team, faces technical problems and starts last. The grid reflects the balance seen throughout the weekend, with McLaren strong in the sprint and Mercedes dominant in qualifying.
Sprint was dominated by McLaren
Lando Norris won Saturday’s sprint race. The McLaren driver led from start to finish and crossed the line with more than three seconds ahead of his teammate Oscar Piastri. Charles Leclerc completed the podium in third.
George Russell finished fourth for Mercedes. Max Verstappen came in fifth. Kimi Antonelli, who started well, received a track limits penalty and dropped to sixth. Lewis Hamilton, from Ferrari, finished seventh. The sprint distributed important points and showed the potential of the 2026 cars on a dry track.
The short race served as a thermometer before the main race. McLaren confirmed good race pace. Mercedes and Ferrari fought for intermediate positions. Red Bull showed progress compared to the start of the season.
Impacto in the new 2026 cars
The 2026 generation cars generate less aerodynamic pressure than the previous ones. Isso makes it difficult for tires to warm up, especially on wet roads. Pilotos as well as Pierre Gasly and Lewis Hamilton tested the models in wet conditions during the pre-season and reported increased instability.
Power units also require constant power management. Mudanças wind or rain intensity may affect performance. The FIA has allowed warm-up wet tires for this season, but grip still poses a challenge. The early start reduces the chance of the GP starting or continuing on a wet track.
F2 also changes programming
Fórmula 2 adjusted its schedule due to the change in F1. The access category race now starts at 10:25 on Brasília. The Brazilian Rafael Camara starts second and is looking for a good result on the Miami oval.
The sprint weekend maintains the compact format. Treinos limited free and classification defined the main grid. Sunday’s race decides the main points of the stage.
The organization of the Miami GP emphasizes that it follows the forecast in real time. Qualquer additional adjustment will be communicated in advance. The focus remains on the safe conclusion of the race and on the spectacle for the audience and viewers.