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

The Miami Grand Prix has established itself as one of Formula 1’s most distinctive modern events since joining the calendar in 2022, combining high-stakes racing with the unmistakable energy of one of America’s most vibrant cities.

Held around the Miami International Autodrome at Hard Rock Stadium, the circuit blends a fast, technical street-style circuit with palm tree-lined backdrops, 'marina' views, and an atmosphere unique to southern Florida.

As the event continues to grow in stature, let's take a look at just some of the reasons Miami is magical.

All eyes on Miami

When Formula 1 lands in the Magic City, Miami injects a fresh wave of North American energy into the season. 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 paddock atmosphere. It's the blend of elite sport, stunning venue and cultural crossover that gives Miami its distinct identity.

There’s plenty of action to enjoy, not just the awesome spectacle of F1 cars duelling wheel to wheel. Who can forget that 2025 LEGO Drivers’ Parade.

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 Qualifying for the Grand Prix. 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.

Why we love 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. Oh, and no margin for error.

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. 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, changeable weather 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 weekend schedule is full of action and there's plenty to look forward to every day, with F1 Free Practice, Qualifying and the Grand Prix – and the Sprint sessions – all supported by other categories. That means even more opportunities to see cars on track.

There’s fantastic live entertainment as performers and music stars continue the party.

During the day there's the stacked F1 Fanzone too, with activities, entertainment, and the chance to see F1 drivers and team representatives live on stage.

Visiting fans have plenty more to check out over the weekend too, with events and activations taking place in the city over race week.

Memorable moments in Miami

Miami has served up some unforgettable moments since first hosting an F1 weekend in 2022.

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. Logan Sargeant and Kevin Magnussen crashed to bring out the Safety Car, with the McLaren driver vaulting into the lead and holding on under relentless pressure from Verstappen.

2025 – Oscar Piastri proved his Championship credentials in a battle with his team mate, snatching the lead from Verstappen at Turn 1 on Lap 14 before delivering the win and a papaya 1-2 with Norris 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 in person. 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).