The Miami Grand Prix is the first of three races in the United States this season. After Max Verstappen dominated the first two editions, it was Lando Norris who claimed his first career win here last year.
This weekend will feature the second Sprint event of the season following China, meaning the action will kick off quickly. Miami’s demanding track surface puts heavy stress on the rear tires, making car setup a real challenge. Teams will likely use the Sprint to fine-tune their strategies ahead of Sunday.
The Track
The Miami International Autodrome stretches over 5.412 kilometers and features 19 corners. Drivers will complete 57 laps, covering a total race distance of 308.326 kilometers. The start line and paddock are located right next to the iconic Hard Rock Stadium.
The circuit opens with a series of three corners followed by fast sweeping bends and a heavy braking zone near the marina. Turns 9 and 10 form what is essentially a long, slightly curved straight leading into the technical middle section of the track.
This tricky part begins with a tight left-hand turn at corner 11, followed by a quick right, another left, a chicane, and a slightly sharper-than-90-degree bend. From there, drivers launch onto the longest straight of the circuit.
At the end of this straight sits Turn 17, a prime overtaking spot. A fast left-right combination then guides the drivers back toward the main straight. Miami will offer three DRS zones again this year.
The first DRS zone will run between Turns 9 and 11. The second will cover most of the long straight after the technical section. The third will be located just before the pit lane entry.
What to Expect
Once again, McLaren and Red Bull are expected to be the front-runners. Lando Norris will aim to defend his win from last year, while Verstappen will look to add another Miami victory to his record after strong showings with the RB18, RB19, and RB20.
Mercedes needs to address its tire degradation issues if it wants to stay in the fight. Ferrari must unlock the full potential of its SF-25, especially in qualifying, to have a real chance at challenging for the win.
In the midfield, the competition remains incredibly tight. It is tough to predict who will come out on top, but Williams looks strong and could be battling Racing Bulls and Pierre Gasly for best of the rest honors.
Miami Grand Prix Schedule
With a five-hour time difference between Florida and London, the sessions will take place late at night or in the early morning for UK viewers. The weekend will follow the Sprint format, featuring two separate qualifying sessions.
| Day | Session | London Time |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, May 2 | Free Practice 1 | 11:30 PM to 12:30 AM |
| Saturday, May 3 | Sprint Qualifying | 3:30 AM to 4:14 AM |
| Saturday, May 3 | Sprint Race | 11:00 PM to 12:00 AM |
| Sunday, May 4 | Grand Prix Qualifying | 3:00 AM to 4:00 AM |
| Sunday, May 4 | Race | 3:00 AM to 5:00 AM |
The full list of Miami Grand Prix winners
| Year | Circuit | Winner | Team | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Miami | Lando Norris | McLaren | Mercedes |
| 2023 | Miami | Max Verstappen | Red Bull | Honda |
| 2022 | Miami | Max Verstappen | Red Bull | Honda |
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