Update: Miami Grand Prix Rescheduled to 1pm Due to Thunderstorm Threat
The Miami Grand Prix scheduled for Sunday has been rescheduled three hours earlier due to the threat of thunderstorms in Florida. The race will now start at 1pm local time (6pm UK time) instead of the original 4pm local time. The decision was made to ensure the safety of drivers, fans, teams, and staff, as heavy rainstorms are expected later in the afternoon. The FIA, FOM, and the Miami Grand Prix organizers jointly announced the change in the start time to minimize disruption and provide the best conditions for the race.
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli secured pole position for the race, with Max Verstappen from Red Bull starting in second place. McLaren had dominated the Sprint events, with Lando Norris leading a one-two finish with teammate Oscar Piastri. The last time the FIA changed a race start time was at the 2024 Sao Paulo Grand Prix due to a similar weather forecast. If the race is wet, certain car features like Straight Line Mode and Boost Mode will be restricted under the new regulations for this year.
Antonelli, who has struggled with his starts this season, expressed optimism about a rolling start if the conditions are wet on Sunday. The limited experience of the drivers in wet conditions with the new cars adds a new challenge to the race. The schedule for Sunday includes the F2 Feature Race at 3.25pm, the Miami GP build-up at 4pm, the Miami Grand Prix at 6pm, and the Miami GP reaction at 8pm. Formula 1 fans can watch the race live on Sky Sports F1 or stream it with NOW without a contract.