The 2026 Formula 1 season resumes this weekend in Miami after a five-week break, with rule changes aimed at reducing battery management issues and preventing crashes caused by speed differentials. The tweaks follow a heavy accident involving Ollie Bearman at the Japanese Grand Prix, where he tried to avoid Franco Colapinto's Alpine. Teams have also used the break to introduce upgrades, potentially shaking up the competitive order currently dominated by Mercedes.
Last year's Miami Grand Prix was marked by extreme weather. Heavy downpours disrupted the sprint race, with Charles Leclerc crashing on his reconnaissance lap due to aquaplaning. The F1 Academy race was cancelled after a formation lap behind the safety car, as drivers struggled with visibility and grip. The main Grand Prix went ahead, with Oscar Piastri taking the win.
Jack Doohan lost his Alpine drive immediately after the Miami Grand Prix, replaced by Franco Colapinto. Doohan had out-qualified teammate Pierre Gasly for the first time but was eliminated in a first-corner incident. He had also suffered heavy crashes earlier in the season. Colapinto, who joined Alpine from Williams as a reserve driver, remains with the team a year later, while Doohan is now a reserve driver for Haas.
Sky Sports pundit Danica Patrick faced backlash from fans during the 2025 Miami weekend, with many calling for her removal due to perceived lack of F1 knowledge. Critics accused Sky of diversity hiring, citing other female presenters. Patrick, a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, was not retained by Sky Sports for the 2026 season.
