Miami’s fifth Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix kicked off with an electrifying day of racing and high-profile events. McLaren’s Lando Norris claimed pole for the upcoming Sprint race with a time of 1m27.869s, edging out Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli by just 0.222 seconds. Norris, who previously won here in 2023, praised the track’s upgrades and his team’s improvements, saying, “It’s a great start and a good way to reward the team.”
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, after topping practice earlier, qualified fourth, just behind McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. The session was held in sweltering conditions, with track temps exceeding 50°C, leading to several driver struggles and early eliminations, including Aston Martin and Cadillac teams at the start of qualifying.
Meanwhile, Formula 2 made its North American debut, with Alpine’s Kush Maini securing the fastest qualifying time, just 0.033 seconds ahead of Rafael Camara. American driver Colton Herta will start 14th for Hitech in tomorrow’s Sprint race, where the top ten’s reverse grid promises exciting racing.
Off track, Miami’s race week is also a hub for business and culture. The Autosport Business Exchange, hosted at Hard Rock Stadium and opened by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen M. Ross, featured influential speakers like F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and McLaren CEO Zak Brown. Ross announced plans for a massive 115,000-square-foot Paddock Club extension ahead of the 2027 race, elevating Miami’s status as a premier F1 hospitality destination.
As the action continues tomorrow with the F1 Sprint, qualifying for Sunday’s grand finale, and support races, the Miami GP underscores its rapid growth as a global motorsport spectacle blending sport, business, and culture. For more info, visit f1miamigp.com.
Photo Credit: FORMULA 1® CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX
