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Formula 1 descends on Florida this weekend for its first Stateside visit of the 2024 season. Against the vibrant Miami backdrop the circuit is centred around the iconic Hard Rock Stadium. This race tracks unfolds its 19 corners within a length of 5.4 kilometers, showcasing a dynamic blend of technical corners and long straits. Modern F1 has embraced the allure of Miami since 2022 with Max Verstappen as the only victor, so far, on the semi-street circuit. The current track record, also held by Verstappen, is a 1:26.814.
The Miami International Autodrome boasts three substantial straights and the potential for three DRS zones, allowing for speeds reaching an estimated 320km/h. There are some elevation changes, somewhat evident between Turns 13 and 16, but nothing that stands out particularly. Another striking visual is the track layout that manoeuvres over an exit ramp and beneath various flyovers/highways. Adding to the complexity, the chicane at Turns 14-15 introduces a compelling challenge. As drivers approach, they encounter an uphill climb, navigating a crest midway through before swiftly descending on exit, demanding precision and skill to master. Given the close-ish proximity of the walls it seems to indicate a higher risk of safety car deployment, whether virtual or actual. However, the safety car has made only one appearance so far, back in 2022 which also included an ‘appearance’ of the virtual safety car. The 2023 Miami grand prix ran uninterrupted.
The polesitter at the Miami International Autodrome has never gone on to win that year’s title. It’s most likely an insignificant detail, considering that the data sample comprises of two races. But, a glimmer of hope for an upset never hurt anyone. But there is little to suggest that Red Bull and Max Verstappen will not out-and-out favourites for pole and the win. There may yet be competition from McLaren and Ferrari but it is difficult to envisage a scenario where Verstappen could be beaten in a straight-out fight.
Elsewhere, the Haas team arrive in Miami is far better shape than they did in 2023. Granted, they have only scored five points in the opening races. But with new team principal Ayao Komatsu there appears the teams seems to be heading in the right direction. It is perhaps not down to the departure of Guenter Steiner, but then his brash nature and approach is likely not missed. In other Haas related news it has been announced that Nico Hulkenberg will be joining Sauber for the 2025 season. As a reminder the Sauber team is set to become Audi in 2026. The rumours are that Ferrari reserve driver, Ollie Bearman, appears to be a shoe-in for the Haas seat in 2025.
Apart from Max Verstappen’s anticipated dominance, the battle within the midfield remains fiercely competitive. The heat is as intense off the track as well. Among the drivers feeling the heat is Daniel Ricciardo, whose position is under pressure from emerging talents like Liam Lawson and Kimi Antonelli, who are waiting eagerly for their shot at the big time. The belief is that Helmut Marko, he of Red Bull infamy, is perhaps beginning to run out of patience with Ricciardo, whose form remains puzzlingly poor. The show, as always, will go on.
