Threatened by severe storms, the Miami race changes its schedule. The FIA has decided to move the start earlier to avoid chaos.
Read more Lewis Hamilton reignited: Ferrari regains colors in Miami
The fourth round of the 2026 Formula 1 season will not take place as planned. Originally scheduled for late afternoon in Florida, the race start has been moved up following an official FIA decision.
This change comes in a particularly unstable weather context. Severe storms, accompanied by lightning risks, directly threaten the running of the event on the Miami street circuit.
Why the FIA made this decision
For several days, weather forecasts have continuously worsened. The storm cells, initially expected after the race, could ultimately strike right in the heart of the event.
Faced with this risk, the FIA did not want to take an unnecessary gamble. In case of a storm with electrical activity, the regulations indeed require the immediate suspension of the race, or even the evacuation of spectators.
Under these conditions, moving the start earlier appeared as the best solution to ensure a complete and safe race.
Read more The electric starting grid of the Miami Grand Prix
What time will the race start?
The start of the Miami Grand Prix has been moved up by three hours compared to the initial schedule.
- 1:00 PM local time (Miami)
- 6:00 PM in the UK (BST)
- 7:00 PM in Belgium and France (CET)
An important change for European fans, who will have to adapt to this unusual time.
An unpredictable scenario ahead
Beyond the timing, these weather conditions could have a major impact on the race itself. Even moved earlier, the event remains under the threat of capricious weather.
Strategies, tire choices, visibility… all parameters could be disrupted if rain finally appears on the track. Not to mention the possibility of a red flag in case of extreme conditions.
In this context, drivers will have to show adaptability and composure. One thing is certain: this Miami Grand Prix could hold many surprises.
Read more Tension between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton in Miami: «We wasted our time»