The FIA has stated it is 'closely monitoring' the Miami Grand Prix amid fears that thunderstorms could disrupt the race. While conditions are expected to remain dry for much of the weekend, forecasts for Sunday indicate heavy thunderstorms moving through the area.
The race is scheduled to start at 4pm local time (9pm BST), but could be brought forward due to a lightning risk. An FIA spokesperson confirmed: 'We are closely monitoring the weather forecast for this weekend. 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 programme.'
The Miami GP marks the first race back on the Formula 1 calendar after a five-week break, caused by the cancellation of races in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain amid ongoing conflicts. Despite speculation about the race being rescheduled or cancelled, Express F1 reporter Daniel Moxon downplayed concerns, noting that the FIA is not as worried as some headlines suggest.
Moxon explained: 'There's been some talk online that Sunday's race might get cancelled because of the chunk of angry tropical weather heading towards Florida. In reality, there are already contingency plans in place depending on what the forecast looks like on Sunday morning. That includes potentially bringing the start time forward, like they did at the 2024 Brazil race. And if lightning does strike during the Grand Prix, bosses are confident that they can pause the race with a red flag rather than abandon it altogether.'
As of now, conditions in Miami are bright, sunny and hot, with shelter from the sun being a greater concern. The Grand Prix remains on track to proceed at the Miami International Autodrome this weekend.
