What makes the Miami Grand Prix special – and why you should see it

The Miami Grand Prix has quickly established itself as one of Formula 1’s most distinctive modern events since it joined the calendar in 2022. Miami combines high-stakes racing with the unmistakable energy of one of America’s most vibrant cities – and there’s so much that makes it special.

Held around the Miami International Autodrome at Hard Rock Stadium, the weekend blends a fast, technical street-style circuit with palm tree-lined backdrops, marina views and a festival atmosphere unique to southern Florida. It’s a race that stands out – visually, culturally and competitively.

The event continues to grow in stature, and the 2026 edition will once again see Miami host the first American race of the year as F1 returns to the Sunshine State in early May.

Miami in the spotlight

Miami injects a fresh wave of North American energy into the season. When Formula 1 lands in the Magic City, the early storylines are beginning to take shape, and everyone wants to catch a glimpse.

The event’s guest list can rival any on the calendar – in 2025, stars including Timothée Chalamet, ROSÉ and Patrick Mahomes were spotted soaking up the atmosphere in the paddock. It's that blend of elite racing, a stunning venue and the cultural crossover that gives Miami its distinct identity.

There’s plenty of action for fans to enjoy too – who can forget that 2025 LEGO Drivers’ Parade – with crowds able to enjoy a packed Sprint weekend.

When is the 2026 Miami Grand Prix?

The 2026 Miami Grand Prix weekend begins on Friday, 1 May with the F1 cars on track for the only Free Practice session of the weekend before Sprint Qualifying later that afternoon. Saturday, 2 May kicks off with the Sprint, followed by Grand Prix Qualifying. The Grand Prix itself takes place on Sunday, 3 May at 1600 local time.

Check out the RACE HUB to see when each F1 session starts in your local time zone, wherever you are in the world.

What's so great about Miami International Autodrome?

A street track spectacular, with the Hard Rock Stadium at its epicentre, the 5.41km layout features 19 corners, three straights, and top speeds of over 350kph. There are elevation changes too, the main one found between Turns 13 and 16, with the track heading over an exit ramp and under various flyovers across uneven ground. The Turn 14-15 chicane, meanwhile, has an uphill approach, with a crest in the middle, and then drops down on exit.

Layer in the Miami heat and a track that transforms session by session, and the challenge only intensifies. As conditions shift and tyres begin to fade, teams are forced into bold strategy calls – setting up dramatic finishes and surprise shake-ups in the closing laps.

The Miami weekend is packed with on-track action during all three days of a Sprint weekend, with F1 practice, Qualifying sessions, the Sprint and the Grand Prix all supported by other categories.

The views at the circuit are stunning, with the Hard Rock Stadium backdrop unlike anywhere else on the calendar. From the upper levels, fans can enjoy sweeping views across large sections of the track.

For those wanting to be right in the thick of the action, grandstands near Turns 1, 11 and 18 are among the best spots. With long, high-speed runs feeding into heavy braking zones, these corners regularly see bold overtakes and late lunges.

Memorable moments in Miami

Its time on the F1 calendar has been short but sweet so far – but the Miami Grand Prix has already delivered some unforgettable moments.

Here’s a selection to whet your appetite for more…

2022: Max Verstappen stormed past Charles Leclerc on Lap 9 with a decisive move into Turn 1, before holding his nerve through a late Safety Car restart to win the inaugural Miami Grand Prix.

2023: Polesitter Sergio Perez seemed powerless to stop a charging Verstappen, who stormed to a second Miami win despite starting from P9 on the grid, thanks to a blistering opening stint.

2024: Lando Norris secured a maiden F1 victory, as Logan Sargeant and Kevin Magnussen crashed to bring out the Safety Car. The McLaren driver vaulted into the lead and held on under relentless pressure from Verstappen.

2025: Oscar Piastri proved his Championship credentials last year, snatching the lead from Verstappen at Turn 1 on Lap 14 before delivering the win and a papaya 1-2 that sparked a dominant run for McLaren.

How can I watch the Miami Grand Prix?

Nothing beats being there! Head to F1 Tickets to secure your place and catch all the action. F1 Experiences has a great range of premium ticket packages too, getting you closer to Formula 1 than ever before.

For details of the broadcaster in your area, click here.

You can also watch the drama unfold via F1 TV Pro (in selected countries only).