The Miami Grand Prix is shaking things up this year. To dodge a potential storm, organizers have moved the race to start at 1 PM local time.
Weather forecasts show a chance of thunderstorms throughout the day, which had F1 officials buzzing with concern. A meeting was held on Saturday night to assess the situation, as heavy rain is expected later. After a scorching qualifying day, with temperatures hitting 34°C, Sunday may see two rounds of rain: one overnight and another in the late afternoon.
The good news? The FIA estimates the morning rain will be light, but the evening storms could pack a punch with lightning, strong winds, and even small hail. Given these conditions, starting the Grand Prix early seemed like the best plan.
FIA, FOM, and Miami Grand Prix stakeholders made this decision to keep the race on track with minimal delays. They emphasized the importance of safety for drivers and fans alike.
To accommodate this change, the support races have also been adjusted. The Porsche Carrera Cup North America has been canceled, while the McLaren Trophy America has been moved to an early 8 AM start, with Formula 2’s feature race following at 9:25 AM. Formula 2 was recently added as a replacement for canceled rounds in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, making it vital to keep this race in Miami.
If storms appear as the race begins, there are plans in place to manage lightning. Starting early gives everyone a better chance to finish safely if weather issues arise.
Historically, F1 races often face weather challenges. For instance, the Belgian Grand Prix in 2021 was called off due to heavy rain, costing teams and fans alike. As climate patterns shift, it’s likely that we’ll see more instances like this.
As of late 2022, over 70% of F1 fans reported wanting teams to prioritize safety, especially during weather disruptions. Staying ahead of storms not only protects everyone involved but also ensures a thrilling race experience. So, here’s to a safe and exciting Miami Grand Prix!
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