Formula One returns this weekend at the Miami Grand Prix after an enforced five-week break following the cancellation of races in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain due to the Middle East conflict. Teams have used the downtime to develop upgrades, with many debuting at Miami, while new regulations are also being seen for the first time. The threat of thunderstorms on Sunday could yet disrupt the schedule.
Mercedes have dominated the opening rounds, remaining unbeaten, with Kimi Antonelli leading team-mate George Russell by nine points in the championship. However, their advantage has been most evident in clean air, and the chasing pack of Ferrari and McLaren believe their substantial upgrades can close the gap. Mercedes have not brought a major update package to Florida.
Lando Norris gave McLaren reason for optimism by taking pole for Saturday's sprint race, beating Antonelli by two-tenths of a second. Oscar Piastri qualified third, with Charles Leclerc fourth, Max Verstappen fifth and George Russell sixth. Lewis Hamilton was seventh. It is the first time this season that a Mercedes has not been on pole in either format.
Red Bull hope their upgrades will address the issues that have hampered their car, with Verstappen currently ninth in the standings. Ferrari, meanwhile, remain confident in their chassis, and both Hamilton and Leclerc have said there is more to come. A significant step forward from the Italian team would ignite the title fight.
Drivers are also adapting to rule adjustments aimed at improving energy management in races. An extended practice session on Friday passed without obvious discontent, but the main test comes with qualifying, the sprint and the grand prix itself. Sunday's race is scheduled for 4pm local time, but with an 85% chance of heavy thunderstorms forecast, the FIA is monitoring the situation and could move the start earlier. Any lightning within an eight-mile radius would force a stoppage, and wet running would be a new experience for these cars.
