Kimi Antonelli led the practice session ahead of teammate George Russell, with Lewis Hamilton posting the third-fastest time behind the Mercedes duo. The practice session was interrupted with three different red flags, first when Liam Lawson came to a stop along the side of the track. The second red flag came when Alexander Albon made contact with some wildlife at the exit of Turn 7 before striking the barrier, and finally Esteban Ocon brought out the red flag when he clipped his front wing.
But who will top the timing sheets when the lap times begin to matter? That is the question that will be answered in short order. F1 Sprint qualifying gets underway at 4:30 p.m. Eastern on Friday, and we will be following every development here live. So check back early and often!
Canadian Grand Prix F1 Sprint qualifying results
Here is the provisional qualifying grid for the F1 Sprint race at the Canadian Grand Prix. Spots will be filled in during the session:
Kimi Antonelli led the practice session ahead of teammate George Russell, with Lewis Hamilton posting the third-fastest time behind the Mercedes duo. The practice session was interrupted with three different red flags, first when Liam Lawson came to a stop along the side of the track. The second red flag came when Alexander Albon made contact with some wildlife at the exit of Turn 7 before striking the barrier, and finally Esteban Ocon brought out the red flag when he clipped his front wing.
But who will top the timing sheets when the lap times begin to matter? That is the question that will be answered in short order. F1 Sprint qualifying gets underway at 4:30 p.m. Eastern on Friday, and we will be following every development here live. So check back early and often!
Canadian Grand Prix F1 Sprint qualifying results
Here is the provisional qualifying grid for the F1 Sprint race at the Canadian Grand Prix. Spots will be filled in during the session:
#Canadian #Grand #Prix #takes #pole #Sprint">Canadian Grand Prix: Who takes pole for the F1 Sprint?
The single practice session is in the books, and the teams are pouring through the data ahead of qualifying for the F1 Sprint race at the Canadian Grand Prix.
Kimi Antonelli led the practice session ahead of teammate George Russell, with Lewis Hamilton posting the third-fastest time behind the Mercedes duo. The practice session was interrupted with three different red flags, first when Liam Lawson came to a stop along the side of the track. The second red flag came when Alexander Albon made contact with some wildlife at the exit of Turn 7 before striking the barrier, and finally Esteban Ocon brought out the red flag when he clipped his front wing.
But who will top the timing sheets when the lap times begin to matter? That is the question that will be answered in short order. F1 Sprint qualifying gets underway at 4:30 p.m. Eastern on Friday, and we will be following every development here live. So check back early and often!
Canadian Grand Prix F1 Sprint qualifying results
Here is the provisional qualifying grid for the F1 Sprint race at the Canadian Grand Prix. Spots will be filled in during the session:
#Canadian #Grand #Prix #takes #pole #Sprint
The single practice session is in the books, and the teams are pouring through the…
But at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix, Lando Norris is doing something truly special.
Norris unveiled his helmet for the weekend on social media, in partnership with Race Against Dementia. The charity was founded by none other than Sir Jackie Stewart, to raise awareness about the condition following his partner Helen’s diagnosis with dementia.
As described by Norris, “the design is in two halves. One side shows a healthy brain and the other side shows a brain affected by synaptic loss:”
As Norris also noted on social media, “55 million people worldwide are currently living with dementia, and every few seconds, the same time it takes do do a pit stop in Formula 1, another person is diagnosed.”
F1 fans, or those wanting to help Race Against Dementia, can pick up helmets and even mini helmets at Norris’ online store, with all proceeds going directly to the charity.
But at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix, Lando Norris is doing something truly special.
Norris unveiled his helmet for the weekend on social media, in partnership with Race Against Dementia. The charity was founded by none other than Sir Jackie Stewart, to raise awareness about the condition following his partner Helen’s diagnosis with dementia.
As described by Norris, “the design is in two halves. One side shows a healthy brain and the other side shows a brain affected by synaptic loss:”
As Norris also noted on social media, “55 million people worldwide are currently living with dementia, and every few seconds, the same time it takes do do a pit stop in Formula 1, another person is diagnosed.”
F1 fans, or those wanting to help Race Against Dementia, can pick up helmets and even mini helmets at Norris’ online store, with all proceeds going directly to the charity.
#Lando #Norris #unveils #special #helmet #Canadian #Grand #Prix">Lando Norris unveils special helmet for F1 Canadian Grand Prix
Special helmets are par for the course in Formula 1.
But at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix, Lando Norris is doing something truly special.
Norris unveiled his helmet for the weekend on social media, in partnership with Race Against Dementia. The charity was founded by none other than Sir Jackie Stewart, to raise awareness about the condition following his partner Helen’s diagnosis with dementia.
As described by Norris, “the design is in two halves. One side shows a healthy brain and the other side shows a brain affected by synaptic loss:”
As Norris also noted on social media, “55 million people worldwide are currently living with dementia, and every few seconds, the same time it takes do do a pit stop in Formula 1, another person is diagnosed.”
F1 fans, or those wanting to help Race Against Dementia, can pick up helmets and even mini helmets at Norris’ online store, with all proceeds going directly to the charity.
The young Mercedes driver stands atop the Drivers’ Championship standings with 100 points, 20 points clear of teammate George Russell and another 41 points ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who sits in third with 59 points. In just his second season, Antonelli began the year with a P2 at the Australian Grand Prix, and followed that with his first three Grand Prix victories. After taking the Chinese Grand Prix, Antonelli notched wins in both the Japanese Grand Prix as well as the Miami Grand Prix last weekend.
With those three wins, Antonelli not only joined some elite company, but he made a little Formula 1 history of his own.
In addition to those three consecutive wins — the first three of his career — Antonelli was on pole position for each of those, with his pole for the Chinese Grand Prix the first Grand Prix pole of his young career.
As pointed out by none other than Will Buxton, who in addition to his duties broadcasting IndyCar with FOX Sports maintains an eye on F1 through the Netflix docuseries Drive to Survive, that put Antonelli in elite company. As Buxton noted, the first drivers in F1 history to take their first three poles consecutively? Antonelli, Ayrton Senna, and Michael Schumacher.
The drivers in F1 history to take their first three wins in consecutive fashion? Damon Hill, Mika Häkkinen, and Antonelli.
Every other driver on that list won at least one F1 Drivers’ Championship. Senna won titles in 1988, 1990 and 1991, Hill won in 1996, Häkkinen won titles in 1998 and 1999, and Schumacher still stands atop F1 history books (alongside Lewis Hamilton) with his seven titles.
But where the Mercedes driver sets himself apart is converting those first three pole positions to wins.
Because, as Buxton noted, the list of drivers to consecutively win their first three F1 races from their first three pole positions contains just one name.
Speaking after Antonelli’s win in Miami, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff admitted that even he did not see this run of form coming.
“Yes, absolutely. I often said it last year: bringing an eighteen-year-old into the team would have given us moments of celebration and others where we wanted to tear our hair out over his mistakes,” said Wolff.
“But it was a necessary process to get him to know the team. Helping him is the fact that this is a new generation of cars and that all the drivers are still learning. I expected a good start, but I have to admit: three wins in a row was not something we had expected.”
Perhaps because it is something F1 has rarely seen.
The young Mercedes driver stands atop the Drivers’ Championship standings with 100 points, 20 points clear of teammate George Russell and another 41 points ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who sits in third with 59 points. In just his second season, Antonelli began the year with a P2 at the Australian Grand Prix, and followed that with his first three Grand Prix victories. After taking the Chinese Grand Prix, Antonelli notched wins in both the Japanese Grand Prix as well as the Miami Grand Prix last weekend.
With those three wins, Antonelli not only joined some elite company, but he made a little Formula 1 history of his own.
In addition to those three consecutive wins — the first three of his career — Antonelli was on pole position for each of those, with his pole for the Chinese Grand Prix the first Grand Prix pole of his young career.
As pointed out by none other than Will Buxton, who in addition to his duties broadcasting IndyCar with FOX Sports maintains an eye on F1 through the Netflix docuseries Drive to Survive, that put Antonelli in elite company. As Buxton noted, the first drivers in F1 history to take their first three poles consecutively? Antonelli, Ayrton Senna, and Michael Schumacher.
The drivers in F1 history to take their first three wins in consecutive fashion? Damon Hill, Mika Häkkinen, and Antonelli.
Every other driver on that list won at least one F1 Drivers’ Championship. Senna won titles in 1988, 1990 and 1991, Hill won in 1996, Häkkinen won titles in 1998 and 1999, and Schumacher still stands atop F1 history books (alongside Lewis Hamilton) with his seven titles.
But where the Mercedes driver sets himself apart is converting those first three pole positions to wins.
Because, as Buxton noted, the list of drivers to consecutively win their first three F1 races from their first three pole positions contains just one name.
Speaking after Antonelli’s win in Miami, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff admitted that even he did not see this run of form coming.
“Yes, absolutely. I often said it last year: bringing an eighteen-year-old into the team would have given us moments of celebration and others where we wanted to tear our hair out over his mistakes,” said Wolff.
“But it was a necessary process to get him to know the team. Helping him is the fact that this is a new generation of cars and that all the drivers are still learning. I expected a good start, but I have to admit: three wins in a row was not something we had expected.”
Perhaps because it is something F1 has rarely seen.
#stat #highlight #Kimi #Antonellis #hot #start #season">One stat to highlight Kimi Antonelli’s hot start to the 2026 F1 season
Kimi Antonelli is off to a scorching start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, of that there is no doubt.
The young Mercedes driver stands atop the Drivers’ Championship standings with 100 points, 20 points clear of teammate George Russell and another 41 points ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who sits in third with 59 points. In just his second season, Antonelli began the year with a P2 at the Australian Grand Prix, and followed that with his first three Grand Prix victories. After taking the Chinese Grand Prix, Antonelli notched wins in both the Japanese Grand Prix as well as the Miami Grand Prix last weekend.
With those three wins, Antonelli not only joined some elite company, but he made a little Formula 1 history of his own.
In addition to those three consecutive wins — the first three of his career — Antonelli was on pole position for each of those, with his pole for the Chinese Grand Prix the first Grand Prix pole of his young career.
As pointed out by none other than Will Buxton, who in addition to his duties broadcasting IndyCar with FOX Sports maintains an eye on F1 through the Netflix docuseries Drive to Survive, that put Antonelli in elite company. As Buxton noted, the first drivers in F1 history to take their first three poles consecutively? Antonelli, Ayrton Senna, and Michael Schumacher.
The drivers in F1 history to take their first three wins in consecutive fashion? Damon Hill, Mika Häkkinen, and Antonelli.
Every other driver on that list won at least one F1 Drivers’ Championship. Senna won titles in 1988, 1990 and 1991, Hill won in 1996, Häkkinen won titles in 1998 and 1999, and Schumacher still stands atop F1 history books (alongside Lewis Hamilton) with his seven titles.
But where the Mercedes driver sets himself apart is converting those first three pole positions to wins.
Because, as Buxton noted, the list of drivers to consecutively win their first three F1 races from their first three pole positions contains just one name.
Speaking after Antonelli’s win in Miami, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff admitted that even he did not see this run of form coming.
“Yes, absolutely. I often said it last year: bringing an eighteen-year-old into the team would have given us moments of celebration and others where we wanted to tear our hair out over his mistakes,” said Wolff.
“But it was a necessary process to get him to know the team. Helping him is the fact that this is a new generation of cars and that all the drivers are still learning. I expected a good start, but I have to admit: three wins in a row was not something we had expected.”
Perhaps because it is something F1 has rarely seen.
Kimi Antonelli is off to a scorching start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, of…
Mercedes’ Italian driver Kimi Antonelli (C), winner of the pole position, stands with Red Bull Racing’s Dutch driver Max Verstappen (L), who finished second, and Ferrari’s Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc (R), who finished third, after the qualifying session for the 2026 Miami Formula One Grand Prix at Miami International Autodrome in Miami Gardens, Florida, on May 2, 2026. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images
Mercedes’ Italian driver Kimi Antonelli (C), winner of the pole position, stands with Red Bull Racing’s Dutch driver Max Verstappen (L), who finished second, and Ferrari’s Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc (R), who finished third, after the qualifying session for the 2026 Miami Formula One Grand Prix at Miami International Autodrome in Miami Gardens, Florida, on May 2, 2026. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images
#qualifying #results #Kimi #Antonelli #takes #pole #Miami #Grand #Prix">F1 qualifying results: Kimi Antonelli takes pole at the Miami Grand Prix
Mercedes’ Italian driver Kimi Antonelli (C), winner of the pole position, stands with Red Bull Racing’s Dutch driver Max Verstappen (L), who finished second, and Ferrari’s Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc (R), who finished third, after the qualifying session for the 2026 Miami Formula One Grand Prix at Miami International Autodrome in Miami Gardens, Florida, on May 2, 2026. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images
However, Isack Hadjar qualified ninth — 0.825 seconds behind Verstappen — which was frustrating enough for the Red Bull driver.
But that frustration worsened Sunday morning, when Hadjar was disqualified from qualifying following a post-session inspection.
During the post-qualifying scrutineering, race stewards found that the floor on Hadjar’s RB22 was protruding approximately two millimeters beyond the specifications allowed for in the 2026 F1 technical regulations. Hadjar and a Red Bull representative were summoned to a hearing with race officials, set for early Sunday morning.
Following the hearing, Hadjar was disqualified from qualifying.
In the report from race stewards, they noted that Red Bull “did not dispute the findings of the Technical Delegate that portions of the LHS and RHS floor boards were protruding 2mm out of the reference volume RV-FLOOR BOARD.”
Race officials imposed the standard penalty for a breach of the technical regulations, which is a disqualification from the session. Red Bull then requested that Hadjar be permitted to start the race, despite being disqualified from qualifying, and race officials granted that request.
Hadjar will line up 22nd on the grid, at the back of the field.
Speaking after qualifying, Hadjar outlined his frustration with the upgrades, and his performance during the hour.
“The car was very hard to drive, it was very fast. In Q3 I just couldn’t put it all together and on the other side we have no straight line speed,” Hadjar said after qualifying.
“I think it’s a very tricky track, very low grip with high track temperature. So nothing to do with what we had in the first three rounds. It’s not a very fluid racing track with good grip.
“It’s completely different and Max is very good at adapting to these conditions. In the corners I can tell you I’ve made big progress compared to yesterday. I just couldn’t tidy up like he did and on top of that I’m missing in every straight.”
Now he’ll have to make up significant ground on the track, in what is expected to be a very wet Miami Grand Prix.
However, Isack Hadjar qualified ninth — 0.825 seconds behind Verstappen — which was frustrating enough for the Red Bull driver.
But that frustration worsened Sunday morning, when Hadjar was disqualified from qualifying following a post-session inspection.
During the post-qualifying scrutineering, race stewards found that the floor on Hadjar’s RB22 was protruding approximately two millimeters beyond the specifications allowed for in the 2026 F1 technical regulations. Hadjar and a Red Bull representative were summoned to a hearing with race officials, set for early Sunday morning.
Following the hearing, Hadjar was disqualified from qualifying.
In the report from race stewards, they noted that Red Bull “did not dispute the findings of the Technical Delegate that portions of the LHS and RHS floor boards were protruding 2mm out of the reference volume RV-FLOOR BOARD.”
Race officials imposed the standard penalty for a breach of the technical regulations, which is a disqualification from the session. Red Bull then requested that Hadjar be permitted to start the race, despite being disqualified from qualifying, and race officials granted that request.
Hadjar will line up 22nd on the grid, at the back of the field.
Speaking after qualifying, Hadjar outlined his frustration with the upgrades, and his performance during the hour.
“The car was very hard to drive, it was very fast. In Q3 I just couldn’t put it all together and on the other side we have no straight line speed,” Hadjar said after qualifying.
“I think it’s a very tricky track, very low grip with high track temperature. So nothing to do with what we had in the first three rounds. It’s not a very fluid racing track with good grip.
“It’s completely different and Max is very good at adapting to these conditions. In the corners I can tell you I’ve made big progress compared to yesterday. I just couldn’t tidy up like he did and on top of that I’m missing in every straight.”
Now he’ll have to make up significant ground on the track, in what is expected to be a very wet Miami Grand Prix.
#Isack #Hadjars #qualifying #disqualification #Miami #explained">Isack Hadjar’s qualifying disqualification at the Miami GP, explained
Red Bull brought a series of upgrades to the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, hoping to unlock improved performance in the RB22. The decision seemed to pay immediate dividends for Max Verstappen, who put his RB22 on the front row during qualifying, and he will start second alongside pole-sitter Kimi Antonelli later today.
However, Isack Hadjar qualified ninth — 0.825 seconds behind Verstappen — which was frustrating enough for the Red Bull driver.
But that frustration worsened Sunday morning, when Hadjar was disqualified from qualifying following a post-session inspection.
During the post-qualifying scrutineering, race stewards found that the floor on Hadjar’s RB22 was protruding approximately two millimeters beyond the specifications allowed for in the 2026 F1 technical regulations. Hadjar and a Red Bull representative were summoned to a hearing with race officials, set for early Sunday morning.
Following the hearing, Hadjar was disqualified from qualifying.
In the report from race stewards, they noted that Red Bull “did not dispute the findings of the Technical Delegate that portions of the LHS and RHS floor boards were protruding 2mm out of the reference volume RV-FLOOR BOARD.”
Race officials imposed the standard penalty for a breach of the technical regulations, which is a disqualification from the session. Red Bull then requested that Hadjar be permitted to start the race, despite being disqualified from qualifying, and race officials granted that request.
Hadjar will line up 22nd on the grid, at the back of the field.
Speaking after qualifying, Hadjar outlined his frustration with the upgrades, and his performance during the hour.
“The car was very hard to drive, it was very fast. In Q3 I just couldn’t put it all together and on the other side we have no straight line speed,” Hadjar said after qualifying.
“I think it’s a very tricky track, very low grip with high track temperature. So nothing to do with what we had in the first three rounds. It’s not a very fluid racing track with good grip.
“It’s completely different and Max is very good at adapting to these conditions. In the corners I can tell you I’ve made big progress compared to yesterday. I just couldn’t tidy up like he did and on top of that I’m missing in every straight.”
Now he’ll have to make up significant ground on the track, in what is expected to be a very wet Miami Grand Prix.
All week long, the incoming weather for Sunday was a major focus of discussion. With forecasts calling for thunderstorms and heavy rain late on Sunday afternoon, coinciding with the scheduled start time for the Miami Grand Prix, F1 officials and even the drivers themselves wondering if the schedule would be altered.
This evening, that decision was made by race officials.
In a statement released Saturday night, following the qualifying session, the start time for the Miami Grand Prix was pushed up three hours, to 1:00 p.m. Eastern on Sunday. The statement cites the forecasts of “heavier rainstorms” close to the original start time, and notes that the decision was made to “ensure the maximum possible window to complete the Grand Prix in the best conditions and to [prioritize] the safety of drivers, fans, teams and staff:”
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current Drivers’ Championship leader, secured pole position for Sunday’s race. Four-time Drivers’ Champion Max Verstappen will start alongside him on the front row.
All week long, the incoming weather for Sunday was a major focus of discussion. With forecasts calling for thunderstorms and heavy rain late on Sunday afternoon, coinciding with the scheduled start time for the Miami Grand Prix, F1 officials and even the drivers themselves wondering if the schedule would be altered.
This evening, that decision was made by race officials.
In a statement released Saturday night, following the qualifying session, the start time for the Miami Grand Prix was pushed up three hours, to 1:00 p.m. Eastern on Sunday. The statement cites the forecasts of “heavier rainstorms” close to the original start time, and notes that the decision was made to “ensure the maximum possible window to complete the Grand Prix in the best conditions and to [prioritize] the safety of drivers, fans, teams and staff:”
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current Drivers’ Championship leader, secured pole position for Sunday’s race. Four-time Drivers’ Champion Max Verstappen will start alongside him on the front row.
Weather forecasts have forced an earlier start to Sunday’s Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix.
All week long, the incoming weather for Sunday was a major focus of discussion. With forecasts calling for thunderstorms and heavy rain late on Sunday afternoon, coinciding with the scheduled start time for the Miami Grand Prix, F1 officials and even the drivers themselves wondering if the schedule would be altered.
This evening, that decision was made by race officials.
In a statement released Saturday night, following the qualifying session, the start time for the Miami Grand Prix was pushed up three hours, to 1:00 p.m. Eastern on Sunday. The statement cites the forecasts of “heavier rainstorms” close to the original start time, and notes that the decision was made to “ensure the maximum possible window to complete the Grand Prix in the best conditions and to [prioritize] the safety of drivers, fans, teams and staff:”
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current Drivers’ Championship leader, secured pole position for Sunday’s race. Four-time Drivers’ Champion Max Verstappen will start alongside him on the front row.
Following qualifying for the F1 Sprint race, the team hailed the “progress” those upgrades unlocked.
While both Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas were eliminated in SQ1, the team believes that Pérez was on the verge of a spot in SQ2 had he been able to complete a second run. Despite qualifying 19th, Pérez called the pace “promising” and indicated he was “happy” with the performance.
“I was very happy with my lap in Sprint Quali, and the pace is promising, but sadly I only had the one run. At some points we were looking like we were going to make it to SQ2, which is already progress, but the priority now is to get on top of our issues. I only had one run as we went out too late and then didn’t have time to refuel and make a second run. In practice we also lost some track time, so we are a bit on the back foot. When we get on top of this, we’ll be able to maximize the package, which is a step forward. We now need a smooth day tomorrow and see where we end up on Sunday,” said the veteran driver in the team’s media report.
Bottas, who will start behind his teammate in P20, said the team is heading in the “right direction.”
“The car feels better with the upgrade, so that’s good. We’ve definitely gained some load especially in high to medium speed. There’s still the need to take further steps, but at least the feeling is better and we’re heading in the right direction. We’ll see what can happen in the Sprint Race tomorrow and the rest of the weekend as we continue to understand our package,” added Bottas.
Team principal Graeme Lowdon outlined how the team needed to capitalize on the “progress” the upgrades displayed Friday.
“We brought a substantial aero upgrade package this weekend, which has translated to more load through the corners and ultimately more laptime on track,” said Lowdon. “The upgrades were on both cars, although Checo was missing one part that may have added a little bit but this will be rectified in rotation agreed between the drivers and team. He could potentially have made it to SQ2 had he got a second run but sadly we missed this after visiting the weigh bridge. This was a missed opportunity but we will learn from it and it shows that we have made a step forward. Valtteri likewise had a decent session so there’s some real promise. We now need to maximize everything operationally and technically to make the most of this progress.”
When Lowdon spoke exclusively with SB Nation ahead of the weekend, the Cadillac boss made it clear that continued development each week was the goal for the team. While points — or even podiums — would be nice, improvement was what the team needed to deliver.
Following qualifying for the F1 Sprint race, the team hailed the “progress” those upgrades unlocked.
While both Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas were eliminated in SQ1, the team believes that Pérez was on the verge of a spot in SQ2 had he been able to complete a second run. Despite qualifying 19th, Pérez called the pace “promising” and indicated he was “happy” with the performance.
“I was very happy with my lap in Sprint Quali, and the pace is promising, but sadly I only had the one run. At some points we were looking like we were going to make it to SQ2, which is already progress, but the priority now is to get on top of our issues. I only had one run as we went out too late and then didn’t have time to refuel and make a second run. In practice we also lost some track time, so we are a bit on the back foot. When we get on top of this, we’ll be able to maximize the package, which is a step forward. We now need a smooth day tomorrow and see where we end up on Sunday,” said the veteran driver in the team’s media report.
Bottas, who will start behind his teammate in P20, said the team is heading in the “right direction.”
“The car feels better with the upgrade, so that’s good. We’ve definitely gained some load especially in high to medium speed. There’s still the need to take further steps, but at least the feeling is better and we’re heading in the right direction. We’ll see what can happen in the Sprint Race tomorrow and the rest of the weekend as we continue to understand our package,” added Bottas.
Team principal Graeme Lowdon outlined how the team needed to capitalize on the “progress” the upgrades displayed Friday.
“We brought a substantial aero upgrade package this weekend, which has translated to more load through the corners and ultimately more laptime on track,” said Lowdon. “The upgrades were on both cars, although Checo was missing one part that may have added a little bit but this will be rectified in rotation agreed between the drivers and team. He could potentially have made it to SQ2 had he got a second run but sadly we missed this after visiting the weigh bridge. This was a missed opportunity but we will learn from it and it shows that we have made a step forward. Valtteri likewise had a decent session so there’s some real promise. We now need to maximize everything operationally and technically to make the most of this progress.”
When Lowdon spoke exclusively with SB Nation ahead of the weekend, the Cadillac boss made it clear that continued development each week was the goal for the team. While points — or even podiums — would be nice, improvement was what the team needed to deliver.
That process is off to a solid start in Miami.
#progress #Cadillac #Miami #Grand #Prix">More ‘progress’ for Cadillac at the Miami Grand Prix
Formula 1’s newest team took advantage of the unexpected break between the Japanese Grand Prix and this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix to develop a series of upgrades for their debut challenger.
Following qualifying for the F1 Sprint race, the team hailed the “progress” those upgrades unlocked.
While both Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas were eliminated in SQ1, the team believes that Pérez was on the verge of a spot in SQ2 had he been able to complete a second run. Despite qualifying 19th, Pérez called the pace “promising” and indicated he was “happy” with the performance.
“I was very happy with my lap in Sprint Quali, and the pace is promising, but sadly I only had the one run. At some points we were looking like we were going to make it to SQ2, which is already progress, but the priority now is to get on top of our issues. I only had one run as we went out too late and then didn’t have time to refuel and make a second run. In practice we also lost some track time, so we are a bit on the back foot. When we get on top of this, we’ll be able to maximize the package, which is a step forward. We now need a smooth day tomorrow and see where we end up on Sunday,” said the veteran driver in the team’s media report.
Bottas, who will start behind his teammate in P20, said the team is heading in the “right direction.”
“The car feels better with the upgrade, so that’s good. We’ve definitely gained some load especially in high to medium speed. There’s still the need to take further steps, but at least the feeling is better and we’re heading in the right direction. We’ll see what can happen in the Sprint Race tomorrow and the rest of the weekend as we continue to understand our package,” added Bottas.
Team principal Graeme Lowdon outlined how the team needed to capitalize on the “progress” the upgrades displayed Friday.
“We brought a substantial aero upgrade package this weekend, which has translated to more load through the corners and ultimately more laptime on track,” said Lowdon. “The upgrades were on both cars, although Checo was missing one part that may have added a little bit but this will be rectified in rotation agreed between the drivers and team. He could potentially have made it to SQ2 had he got a second run but sadly we missed this after visiting the weigh bridge. This was a missed opportunity but we will learn from it and it shows that we have made a step forward. Valtteri likewise had a decent session so there’s some real promise. We now need to maximize everything operationally and technically to make the most of this progress.”
When Lowdon spoke exclusively with SB Nation ahead of the weekend, the Cadillac boss made it clear that continued development each week was the goal for the team. While points — or even podiums — would be nice, improvement was what the team needed to deliver.
That process is off to a solid start in Miami.
#progress #Cadillac #Miami #Grand #Prix
Formula 1’s newest team took advantage of the unexpected break between the Japanese Grand Prix…
In McLaren’s media report both Norris (and teammate Oscar Piastri who qualified third) talked about the upgrades.
“I’m happy with that. The car had good potential, which was really nice to see. We still have things to improve, but the new package is a good step, so thank you to the whole team for their efforts. Congratulations to Lando as well – we didn’t luck into today’s result, the potential is there,” said Piastri.
“The Ferraris looked strong throughout the day, so qualifying where we have is a really good effort. Whilst we expect the Mercedes to remain competitive, they haven’t looked as dominant so far, but there’s still a lot of track action to go. We’ll take the learnings from today and see what we can do in the Sprint, before we switch our focus to GP Qualifying.”
”We came into this weekend having put a lot of hard work into these upgrades, but you can never be certain what to expect until the car is on the track. I’m incredibly happy for the whole team because, from the very first lap, it felt like we had taken a step forward. It gave me the confidence I’ve been looking for, allowing me to really push and exploit its potential straight away,” added Norris.
“It’s a great start, and it feels good to be right in the mix, but we’re keeping our feet on the ground. It was incredibly close out there with several teams looking quick, and we know there are still plenty of unknowns, especially when it comes to race pace. We are still learning how to get the most out of this new package, but we’ve started as well as we could have asked for. For now, I’m happy with what we’ve achieved, and we will focus on making further improvements ahead of the Sprint and Grand Prix Qualifying tomorrow.”
According to the team’s Car Presentation Submission to the FIA, McLaren brought seven new components to Miami, including a new rear wing and a new floor.
Neil Houldey, the team’s technical director of applied engineering, referred to this host of upgrades as the team’s “first phase” of their development program.
“We’re pleased with today’s result and performance across the opening day of running in Miami. The car has been great for both drivers, and the first phase of our development upgrades has shown promising signs,” said Houldey.
“To come away with a Pole and third on tomorrow’s Sprint grid, given where we were in the first few races, is a strong step forward. Credit to the team at the factory for this first step, from aerodynamics and design through to manufacturing, and to the crew at the track who finished putting the package together, ready for today’s sessions.”
A pretty impressive start to McLaren’s first phase.
In McLaren’s media report both Norris (and teammate Oscar Piastri who qualified third) talked about the upgrades.
“I’m happy with that. The car had good potential, which was really nice to see. We still have things to improve, but the new package is a good step, so thank you to the whole team for their efforts. Congratulations to Lando as well – we didn’t luck into today’s result, the potential is there,” said Piastri.
“The Ferraris looked strong throughout the day, so qualifying where we have is a really good effort. Whilst we expect the Mercedes to remain competitive, they haven’t looked as dominant so far, but there’s still a lot of track action to go. We’ll take the learnings from today and see what we can do in the Sprint, before we switch our focus to GP Qualifying.”
”We came into this weekend having put a lot of hard work into these upgrades, but you can never be certain what to expect until the car is on the track. I’m incredibly happy for the whole team because, from the very first lap, it felt like we had taken a step forward. It gave me the confidence I’ve been looking for, allowing me to really push and exploit its potential straight away,” added Norris.
“It’s a great start, and it feels good to be right in the mix, but we’re keeping our feet on the ground. It was incredibly close out there with several teams looking quick, and we know there are still plenty of unknowns, especially when it comes to race pace. We are still learning how to get the most out of this new package, but we’ve started as well as we could have asked for. For now, I’m happy with what we’ve achieved, and we will focus on making further improvements ahead of the Sprint and Grand Prix Qualifying tomorrow.”
According to the team’s Car Presentation Submission to the FIA, McLaren brought seven new components to Miami, including a new rear wing and a new floor.
Neil Houldey, the team’s technical director of applied engineering, referred to this host of upgrades as the team’s “first phase” of their development program.
“We’re pleased with today’s result and performance across the opening day of running in Miami. The car has been great for both drivers, and the first phase of our development upgrades has shown promising signs,” said Houldey.
“To come away with a Pole and third on tomorrow’s Sprint grid, given where we were in the first few races, is a strong step forward. Credit to the team at the factory for this first step, from aerodynamics and design through to manufacturing, and to the crew at the track who finished putting the package together, ready for today’s sessions.”
A pretty impressive start to McLaren’s first phase.
#Lando #Norris #hails #upgrades #storming #Sprint #pole #Miami">Lando Norris hails upgrades after storming to F1 Sprint pole in Miami
Over the first three race weekends of the 2026 Formula 1 season, every competitve session ended the same way: With a Mercedes driver in P1. George Russell took both pole position and the win at the Australian Grand Prix, while Kimi Antonelli did the same at both the Chinese Grand Prix (where Russell took pole — and the win — for the F1 Sprint race) and the Japanese Grand Prix.
After a long layoff, F1 returned to action this week at the Miami Grand Prix, and that break has done McLaren some good. The defending Constructors’ Champions brought a host of upgrades to South Beach, and when the dust settled after Friday’s F1 Sprint qualifying, defending Drivers’ Champion Lando Norris was atop the timing sheets.
The McLaren driver hailed the upgrades — and the ability to feel “grip” again — after the qualifying session.
“This is a perfect result for us and a nice way to reward the team. We have a lot of new upgrades on the car so it’s nice to feel some grip again,” said Norris. “I’ve always loved Miami, both on and off the track, so it’s a good result for us. We know this track has been good to us, and we knew what we were bringing might be a good step and it is. I’ve always felt good around here and although it’s only the beginning of the weekend and there’s a long way to go, but it’s nice to start with pole.”
In McLaren’s media report both Norris (and teammate Oscar Piastri who qualified third) talked about the upgrades.
“I’m happy with that. The car had good potential, which was really nice to see. We still have things to improve, but the new package is a good step, so thank you to the whole team for their efforts. Congratulations to Lando as well – we didn’t luck into today’s result, the potential is there,” said Piastri.
“The Ferraris looked strong throughout the day, so qualifying where we have is a really good effort. Whilst we expect the Mercedes to remain competitive, they haven’t looked as dominant so far, but there’s still a lot of track action to go. We’ll take the learnings from today and see what we can do in the Sprint, before we switch our focus to GP Qualifying.”
”We came into this weekend having put a lot of hard work into these upgrades, but you can never be certain what to expect until the car is on the track. I’m incredibly happy for the whole team because, from the very first lap, it felt like we had taken a step forward. It gave me the confidence I’ve been looking for, allowing me to really push and exploit its potential straight away,” added Norris.
“It’s a great start, and it feels good to be right in the mix, but we’re keeping our feet on the ground. It was incredibly close out there with several teams looking quick, and we know there are still plenty of unknowns, especially when it comes to race pace. We are still learning how to get the most out of this new package, but we’ve started as well as we could have asked for. For now, I’m happy with what we’ve achieved, and we will focus on making further improvements ahead of the Sprint and Grand Prix Qualifying tomorrow.”
According to the team’s Car Presentation Submission to the FIA, McLaren brought seven new components to Miami, including a new rear wing and a new floor.
Neil Houldey, the team’s technical director of applied engineering, referred to this host of upgrades as the team’s “first phase” of their development program.
“We’re pleased with today’s result and performance across the opening day of running in Miami. The car has been great for both drivers, and the first phase of our development upgrades has shown promising signs,” said Houldey.
“To come away with a Pole and third on tomorrow’s Sprint grid, given where we were in the first few races, is a strong step forward. Credit to the team at the factory for this first step, from aerodynamics and design through to manufacturing, and to the crew at the track who finished putting the package together, ready for today’s sessions.”
A pretty impressive start to McLaren’s first phase.
Over the first three race weekends of the 2026 Formula 1 season, every competitve session…
MIAMI, FLORIDA – APRIL 30: George Russell of Great Britain and Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team arrives in the Paddock during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at Miami International Autodrome on April 30, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Hector Vivas – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images) Formula 1 via Getty Images
MIAMI, FLORIDA – APRIL 30: George Russell of Great Britain and Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team arrives in the Paddock during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at Miami International Autodrome on April 30, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Hector Vivas – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images) Formula 1 via Getty Images
#takes #Sprint #pole #Miami #Grand #Prix">Who takes F1 Sprint pole at the Miami Grand Prix?
MIAMI, FLORIDA – APRIL 30: George Russell of Great Britain and Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team arrives in the Paddock during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at Miami International Autodrome on April 30, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Hector Vivas – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images) Formula 1 via Getty Images
#takes #Sprint #pole #Miami #Grand #Prix
MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 30: George Russell of Great Britain and Mercedes AMG Petronas F1…
“I understand that there is a meeting later on with the FIA to double-check the scenario for Sunday because apparently, it’s looking really bad. So, we’ll see if there are any changes on the schedule for the weekend,” added Cadillac’s Sergio Pérez.
The sport’s governing body, the FIA, issued a statement on Thursday.
“We are closely monitoring the weather forecast for this weekend,” an FIA spokesperson said. “Having faced a similar situation last year in Miami with threats of thunderstorms, we have a contingency plan in place and will activate it if needed to minimise disruption to the on-track [program].”
Last year, wet weather on Saturday forced the cancellation of the second F1 Academy race at the Miami Grand Prix, and the F1 Sprint race began in tricky conditions. Charles Leclerc crashed in those conditions ahead of the F1 Sprint race, and did not make the start.
As of Friday morning, forecasts are calling for showers in the morning with heavy thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon, with an 85% chance of rain and up to a half-inch of precipitation during the afternoon:
Complicating matters is the fact that few drivers have operated this year’s machinery in wet conditions, as noted by Piastri. Drivers are still coming to grips with the impact of the new regulations, which were tweaked during the extended break.
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current championship leader, is one of the few drivers who has experienced the new cars in wet conditions. He described that experience as “tricky” on Thursday.
“Yeah, I drove the car when we did the shakedown in Silverstone in the wet and definitely it was very tricky,” said Antonelli.
“Although now with the changes, they clipped the power to 250 kilowatts for the wet and no boost, so that’s already a step forward in that regard. And definitely I think it’s going to be tricky because there will be a lot of unknown, and obviously we’re also going to be racing if the wet weather presents. But I think also another big topic is that we will need to increase tire blanket [temperatures] for the wet because I think as they are now, probably they will be a bit too low for the conditions.
“So yeah, it’s going to be interesting to see, tricky, but let’s see. If it’s thunderstorms, like they say, we probably also won’t get under way for quite a bit of time. So, let’s see how that goes,” added Antonelli. “But definitely it’s going to be very interesting because there’s so much unknown in the wet at the moment, especially no one really used the inter tires, so we don’t know how it’s going to feel, how much grip there will be, especially with the new regulation. And I think also one thing with this year’s cars, it’s a bit harder to build temperature with the tyres, so in the wet they might be tricky and that’s why we probably would need to increase tire blanket [temps] in order to make it a bit better and a bit easier on that side. But yeah, let’s see what’s going to happen.”
As Antonelli pointed out, ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA announced that the new boost mode would not be accessible for drivers in wet conditions, like we may see on Sunday.
Regarding what F1 could do to the schedule, the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix may be a guide. Ahead of that race, qualifying for the Grand Prix was moved from Saturday to Sunday morning due to severe weather, and the start time of the Grand Prix on Sunday was pushed up by 90 minutes as well.
With these forecasts, we could see something similar in Miami this weekend.
“I understand that there is a meeting later on with the FIA to double-check the scenario for Sunday because apparently, it’s looking really bad. So, we’ll see if there are any changes on the schedule for the weekend,” added Cadillac’s Sergio Pérez.
The sport’s governing body, the FIA, issued a statement on Thursday.
“We are closely monitoring the weather forecast for this weekend,” an FIA spokesperson said. “Having faced a similar situation last year in Miami with threats of thunderstorms, we have a contingency plan in place and will activate it if needed to minimise disruption to the on-track [program].”
Last year, wet weather on Saturday forced the cancellation of the second F1 Academy race at the Miami Grand Prix, and the F1 Sprint race began in tricky conditions. Charles Leclerc crashed in those conditions ahead of the F1 Sprint race, and did not make the start.
As of Friday morning, forecasts are calling for showers in the morning with heavy thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon, with an 85% chance of rain and up to a half-inch of precipitation during the afternoon:
Complicating matters is the fact that few drivers have operated this year’s machinery in wet conditions, as noted by Piastri. Drivers are still coming to grips with the impact of the new regulations, which were tweaked during the extended break.
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current championship leader, is one of the few drivers who has experienced the new cars in wet conditions. He described that experience as “tricky” on Thursday.
“Yeah, I drove the car when we did the shakedown in Silverstone in the wet and definitely it was very tricky,” said Antonelli.
“Although now with the changes, they clipped the power to 250 kilowatts for the wet and no boost, so that’s already a step forward in that regard. And definitely I think it’s going to be tricky because there will be a lot of unknown, and obviously we’re also going to be racing if the wet weather presents. But I think also another big topic is that we will need to increase tire blanket [temperatures] for the wet because I think as they are now, probably they will be a bit too low for the conditions.
“So yeah, it’s going to be interesting to see, tricky, but let’s see. If it’s thunderstorms, like they say, we probably also won’t get under way for quite a bit of time. So, let’s see how that goes,” added Antonelli. “But definitely it’s going to be very interesting because there’s so much unknown in the wet at the moment, especially no one really used the inter tires, so we don’t know how it’s going to feel, how much grip there will be, especially with the new regulation. And I think also one thing with this year’s cars, it’s a bit harder to build temperature with the tyres, so in the wet they might be tricky and that’s why we probably would need to increase tire blanket [temps] in order to make it a bit better and a bit easier on that side. But yeah, let’s see what’s going to happen.”
As Antonelli pointed out, ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA announced that the new boost mode would not be accessible for drivers in wet conditions, like we may see on Sunday.
Regarding what F1 could do to the schedule, the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix may be a guide. Ahead of that race, qualifying for the Grand Prix was moved from Saturday to Sunday morning due to severe weather, and the start time of the Grand Prix on Sunday was pushed up by 90 minutes as well.
With these forecasts, we could see something similar in Miami this weekend.
#Weather #big #story #Miami #Grand #Prix">Weather the big story at the F1 Miami Grand Prix
Formula 1 is finally back after an extended absence, with this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix.
But it is shaping up to be a rather soggy return to the track.
Weather was the dominant story during Thursday’s media day sessions, as current forecasts call for thunderstorms and heavy rain on Sunday during the main event. That forecast has all the drivers talking about what they might encounter, and even has the sport considering changing the schedule for the weekend.
“It’ll be interesting. I don’t think many of us have driven these cars in the rain before, maybe a couple of people in Barcelona at the shakedown,“ said Oscar Piastri during Thursday’s FIA Press Conference. ”But I think they’re going to be challenging cars to drive in the rain just because of some of the quirks that they have. And obviously the weather, normally if it rains in Miami, it does it properly, so we’ll wait and see. But it’ll be interesting one way or another.“
“I understand that there is a meeting later on with the FIA to double-check the scenario for Sunday because apparently, it’s looking really bad. So, we’ll see if there are any changes on the schedule for the weekend,” added Cadillac’s Sergio Pérez.
The sport’s governing body, the FIA, issued a statement on Thursday.
“We are closely monitoring the weather forecast for this weekend,” an FIA spokesperson said. “Having faced a similar situation last year in Miami with threats of thunderstorms, we have a contingency plan in place and will activate it if needed to minimise disruption to the on-track [program].”
Last year, wet weather on Saturday forced the cancellation of the second F1 Academy race at the Miami Grand Prix, and the F1 Sprint race began in tricky conditions. Charles Leclerc crashed in those conditions ahead of the F1 Sprint race, and did not make the start.
As of Friday morning, forecasts are calling for showers in the morning with heavy thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon, with an 85% chance of rain and up to a half-inch of precipitation during the afternoon:
Complicating matters is the fact that few drivers have operated this year’s machinery in wet conditions, as noted by Piastri. Drivers are still coming to grips with the impact of the new regulations, which were tweaked during the extended break.
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current championship leader, is one of the few drivers who has experienced the new cars in wet conditions. He described that experience as “tricky” on Thursday.
“Yeah, I drove the car when we did the shakedown in Silverstone in the wet and definitely it was very tricky,” said Antonelli.
“Although now with the changes, they clipped the power to 250 kilowatts for the wet and no boost, so that’s already a step forward in that regard. And definitely I think it’s going to be tricky because there will be a lot of unknown, and obviously we’re also going to be racing if the wet weather presents. But I think also another big topic is that we will need to increase tire blanket [temperatures] for the wet because I think as they are now, probably they will be a bit too low for the conditions.
“So yeah, it’s going to be interesting to see, tricky, but let’s see. If it’s thunderstorms, like they say, we probably also won’t get under way for quite a bit of time. So, let’s see how that goes,” added Antonelli. “But definitely it’s going to be very interesting because there’s so much unknown in the wet at the moment, especially no one really used the inter tires, so we don’t know how it’s going to feel, how much grip there will be, especially with the new regulation. And I think also one thing with this year’s cars, it’s a bit harder to build temperature with the tyres, so in the wet they might be tricky and that’s why we probably would need to increase tire blanket [temps] in order to make it a bit better and a bit easier on that side. But yeah, let’s see what’s going to happen.”
As Antonelli pointed out, ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA announced that the new boost mode would not be accessible for drivers in wet conditions, like we may see on Sunday.
Regarding what F1 could do to the schedule, the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix may be a guide. Ahead of that race, qualifying for the Grand Prix was moved from Saturday to Sunday morning due to severe weather, and the start time of the Grand Prix on Sunday was pushed up by 90 minutes as well.
With these forecasts, we could see something similar in Miami this weekend.
#Weather #big #story #Miami #Grand #Prix
Formula 1 is finally back after an extended absence, with this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix.But…
![Miami Grand Prix: Forecasted weather forces earlier start Weather forecasts have forced an earlier start to Sunday’s Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix.All week long, the incoming weather for Sunday was a major focus of discussion. With forecasts calling for thunderstorms and heavy rain late on Sunday afternoon, coinciding with the scheduled start time for the Miami Grand Prix, F1 officials and even the drivers themselves wondering if the schedule would be altered.This evening, that decision was made by race officials.In a statement released Saturday night, following the qualifying session, the start time for the Miami Grand Prix was pushed up three hours, to 1:00 p.m. Eastern on Sunday. The statement cites the forecasts of “heavier rainstorms” close to the original start time, and notes that the decision was made to “ensure the maximum possible window to complete the Grand Prix in the best conditions and to [prioritize] the safety of drivers, fans, teams and staff:”Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current Drivers’ Championship leader, secured pole position for Sunday’s race. Four-time Drivers’ Champion Max Verstappen will start alongside him on the front row. #Miami #Grand #Prix #Forecasted #weather #forces #earlier #start](https://i2.wp.com/platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/05/gettyimages-2274207014.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0%2C10.738219895288%2C100%2C78.523560209424&w=1200&ssl=1 "Miami Grand Prix: Forecasted weather forces earlier start Weather forecasts have forced an earlier start to Sunday’s Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix.All week long, the incoming weather for Sunday was a major focus of discussion. With forecasts calling for thunderstorms and heavy rain late on Sunday afternoon, coinciding with the scheduled start time for the Miami Grand Prix, F1 officials and even the drivers themselves wondering if the schedule would be altered.This evening, that decision was made by race officials.In a statement released Saturday night, following the qualifying session, the start time for the Miami Grand Prix was pushed up three hours, to 1:00 p.m. Eastern on Sunday. The statement cites the forecasts of “heavier rainstorms” close to the original start time, and notes that the decision was made to “ensure the maximum possible window to complete the Grand Prix in the best conditions and to [prioritize] the safety of drivers, fans, teams and staff:”Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current Drivers’ Championship leader, secured pole position for Sunday’s race. Four-time Drivers’ Champion Max Verstappen will start alongside him on the front row. #Miami #Grand #Prix #Forecasted #weather #forces #earlier #start")
![Weather the big story at the F1 Miami Grand Prix Formula 1 is finally back after an extended absence, with this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix.But it is shaping up to be a rather soggy return to the track.Weather was the dominant story during Thursday’s media day sessions, as current forecasts call for thunderstorms and heavy rain on Sunday during the main event. That forecast has all the drivers talking about what they might encounter, and even has the sport considering changing the schedule for the weekend.“It’ll be interesting. I don’t think many of us have driven these cars in the rain before, maybe a couple of people in Barcelona at the shakedown,“ said Oscar Piastri during Thursday’s FIA Press Conference. ”But I think they’re going to be challenging cars to drive in the rain just because of some of the quirks that they have. And obviously the weather, normally if it rains in Miami, it does it properly, so we’ll wait and see. But it’ll be interesting one way or another.““I understand that there is a meeting later on with the FIA to double-check the scenario for Sunday because apparently, it’s looking really bad. So, we’ll see if there are any changes on the schedule for the weekend,” added Cadillac’s Sergio Pérez.The sport’s governing body, the FIA, issued a statement on Thursday.“We are closely monitoring the weather forecast for this weekend,” an FIA spokesperson said. “Having faced a similar situation last year in Miami with threats of thunderstorms, we have a contingency plan in place and will activate it if needed to minimise disruption to the on-track [program].”Last year, wet weather on Saturday forced the cancellation of the second F1 Academy race at the Miami Grand Prix, and the F1 Sprint race began in tricky conditions. Charles Leclerc crashed in those conditions ahead of the F1 Sprint race, and did not make the start.As of Friday morning, forecasts are calling for showers in the morning with heavy thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon, with an 85% chance of rain and up to a half-inch of precipitation during the afternoon:Complicating matters is the fact that few drivers have operated this year’s machinery in wet conditions, as noted by Piastri. Drivers are still coming to grips with the impact of the new regulations, which were tweaked during the extended break.Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current championship leader, is one of the few drivers who has experienced the new cars in wet conditions. He described that experience as “tricky” on Thursday.“Yeah, I drove the car when we did the shakedown in Silverstone in the wet and definitely it was very tricky,” said Antonelli.“Although now with the changes, they clipped the power to 250 kilowatts for the wet and no boost, so that’s already a step forward in that regard. And definitely I think it’s going to be tricky because there will be a lot of unknown, and obviously we’re also going to be racing if the wet weather presents. But I think also another big topic is that we will need to increase tire blanket [temperatures] for the wet because I think as they are now, probably they will be a bit too low for the conditions.“So yeah, it’s going to be interesting to see, tricky, but let’s see. If it’s thunderstorms, like they say, we probably also won’t get under way for quite a bit of time. So, let’s see how that goes,” added Antonelli. “But definitely it’s going to be very interesting because there’s so much unknown in the wet at the moment, especially no one really used the inter tires, so we don’t know how it’s going to feel, how much grip there will be, especially with the new regulation. And I think also one thing with this year’s cars, it’s a bit harder to build temperature with the tyres, so in the wet they might be tricky and that’s why we probably would need to increase tire blanket [temps] in order to make it a bit better and a bit easier on that side. But yeah, let’s see what’s going to happen.”As Antonelli pointed out, ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA announced that the new boost mode would not be accessible for drivers in wet conditions, like we may see on Sunday.Regarding what F1 could do to the schedule, the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix may be a guide. Ahead of that race, qualifying for the Grand Prix was moved from Saturday to Sunday morning due to severe weather, and the start time of the Grand Prix on Sunday was pushed up by 90 minutes as well.With these forecasts, we could see something similar in Miami this weekend. #Weather #big #story #Miami #Grand #Prix](https://i3.wp.com/platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/05/Screenshot-2026-05-01-at-6.52.47AM.png?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0%2C0%2C100%2C100&w=2400&ssl=1 "Weather the big story at the F1 Miami Grand Prix Formula 1 is finally back after an extended absence, with this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix.But it is shaping up to be a rather soggy return to the track.Weather was the dominant story during Thursday’s media day sessions, as current forecasts call for thunderstorms and heavy rain on Sunday during the main event. That forecast has all the drivers talking about what they might encounter, and even has the sport considering changing the schedule for the weekend.“It’ll be interesting. I don’t think many of us have driven these cars in the rain before, maybe a couple of people in Barcelona at the shakedown,“ said Oscar Piastri during Thursday’s FIA Press Conference. ”But I think they’re going to be challenging cars to drive in the rain just because of some of the quirks that they have. And obviously the weather, normally if it rains in Miami, it does it properly, so we’ll wait and see. But it’ll be interesting one way or another.““I understand that there is a meeting later on with the FIA to double-check the scenario for Sunday because apparently, it’s looking really bad. So, we’ll see if there are any changes on the schedule for the weekend,” added Cadillac’s Sergio Pérez.The sport’s governing body, the FIA, issued a statement on Thursday.“We are closely monitoring the weather forecast for this weekend,” an FIA spokesperson said. “Having faced a similar situation last year in Miami with threats of thunderstorms, we have a contingency plan in place and will activate it if needed to minimise disruption to the on-track [program].”Last year, wet weather on Saturday forced the cancellation of the second F1 Academy race at the Miami Grand Prix, and the F1 Sprint race began in tricky conditions. Charles Leclerc crashed in those conditions ahead of the F1 Sprint race, and did not make the start.As of Friday morning, forecasts are calling for showers in the morning with heavy thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon, with an 85% chance of rain and up to a half-inch of precipitation during the afternoon:Complicating matters is the fact that few drivers have operated this year’s machinery in wet conditions, as noted by Piastri. Drivers are still coming to grips with the impact of the new regulations, which were tweaked during the extended break.Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current championship leader, is one of the few drivers who has experienced the new cars in wet conditions. He described that experience as “tricky” on Thursday.“Yeah, I drove the car when we did the shakedown in Silverstone in the wet and definitely it was very tricky,” said Antonelli.“Although now with the changes, they clipped the power to 250 kilowatts for the wet and no boost, so that’s already a step forward in that regard. And definitely I think it’s going to be tricky because there will be a lot of unknown, and obviously we’re also going to be racing if the wet weather presents. But I think also another big topic is that we will need to increase tire blanket [temperatures] for the wet because I think as they are now, probably they will be a bit too low for the conditions.“So yeah, it’s going to be interesting to see, tricky, but let’s see. If it’s thunderstorms, like they say, we probably also won’t get under way for quite a bit of time. So, let’s see how that goes,” added Antonelli. “But definitely it’s going to be very interesting because there’s so much unknown in the wet at the moment, especially no one really used the inter tires, so we don’t know how it’s going to feel, how much grip there will be, especially with the new regulation. And I think also one thing with this year’s cars, it’s a bit harder to build temperature with the tyres, so in the wet they might be tricky and that’s why we probably would need to increase tire blanket [temps] in order to make it a bit better and a bit easier on that side. But yeah, let’s see what’s going to happen.”As Antonelli pointed out, ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA announced that the new boost mode would not be accessible for drivers in wet conditions, like we may see on Sunday.Regarding what F1 could do to the schedule, the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix may be a guide. Ahead of that race, qualifying for the Grand Prix was moved from Saturday to Sunday morning due to severe weather, and the start time of the Grand Prix on Sunday was pushed up by 90 minutes as well.With these forecasts, we could see something similar in Miami this weekend. #Weather #big #story #Miami #Grand #Prix")
