The Miami Grand Prix start time was moved earlier to avoid thunderstorms, marking a rare change in F1 scheduling due to weather. The race will now begin at 1:00 PM local time on Sunday, May 2, 2026.
The original start time was set for 4:00 PM. This adjustment came after discussions among FIA, FOM, and the Miami promoter regarding the forecast of heavy rainstorms later in the day.
Kimi Antonelli claimed pole position for the Miami Grand Prix. He expressed his readiness for the race, mentioning that a rolling start could change strategies.
Florida laws dictate that outdoor sports events must halt immediately upon hearing thunder. This regulation influenced the decision to shift the race time.
The Miami GP is part of the 2026 Formula 1 season. It follows the first Sprint of the year at the Chinese GP, which George Russell won. The upcoming event will consist of 19 laps.
Wind gusts reached 25 kph at Turn 11 during practice sessions. Drivers have been preparing for wet conditions, with Lewis Hamilton noting he has done more wet testing than ever before.
This sequence of events is significant as it affects team strategies and fan attendance. The last time FIA changed a race start time was at the 2024 Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
The upcoming Miami GP Sprint will be a crucial test for drivers as they adapt to changing conditions. Kimi Antonelli stated it would be a new challenge for everyone involved.
