Kimi Antonelli will start from pole position for the 2026 Miami Grand Prix on May 3. His strong qualifying performance positions him as a key contender in a race threatened by severe thunderstorms.
The race start time has been moved three hours earlier to avoid heavy rain predicted for the afternoon. Originally scheduled for 9 PM BST (4 PM local), it will now begin at 6 PM BST (1 PM local). The Miami Grand Prix consists of 57 laps.
Antonelli leads the championship standings by six points over George Russell. This event marks the third iteration of the Miami GP, which joined the F1 calendar in 2022. The previous two scheduled grands prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were cancelled due to conflict in the Middle East.
Key statistics:
- Kimi Antonelli’s pole position is crucial as he seeks to extend his lead in the championship.
- The race will consist of a total of 57 laps on a challenging street circuit.
- The start time adjustment aims to mitigate disruptions caused by thunderstorms.
Oscar Piastri commented on the situation, saying, “It’s obviously going to be a voyage into the unknown for everybody.” This statement reflects the uncertainty surrounding race conditions. Officials have prioritized safety for drivers, fans, teams, and staff amidst unpredictable weather forecasts.
This race presents a unique challenge for all drivers involved. Overtaking opportunities may be limited due to wet conditions. The teams will need to adapt quickly to changing circumstances during the event.