Plan Your Miami Grand Prix
Ten years after returning to the States at the hugely popular Austin circuit, the US adds a second Grand Prix, racing for the first time in Miami. It underscores the surge of Formula 1’s popularity in the country, amid the determined effort by Liberty Media to grow the sport’s following there.
The Miami International Autodrome will host the Miami Grand Prix on May 8th. Held on the site of the Hard Rock Stadium, in Miami Gardens, the track is 3.36 miles (5.41 km) long with 19 turns, three straights, three DRS zones and top speeds of just under 200 mph (320 kph).
The grounds of a sports stadium may seem like a soulless setting for a Grand Prix and inevitably draws comparisons to the unpopular Las Vegas circuit of the early 80s. Held in Caesar’s Palace carpark, the track was sterile and lacking character.
Early signs are that the comparison is unfair though. The Vegas track was the city’s short term plan for some quick cash, held on a temporary track. Miami was the first host to work with F1 on a layout and plans a long term partnership, having agreed a 10-year contract to host the race.
Miami is expected to put on a great show and being a night race just adds to the sense of occasion and visual impact. There will even be a beach club with pools, sunbeds, cabanas and musical performances. It all serves to give the venue an unmistakably Miami feel and a novel way to enjoy the action.
As a destination, there’s no doubting Miami’s credentials. Colourful Art Deco facades and Cuban influences lend the city a unique character and draw you in. Glamour, sun, dazzling nightlife, and palm tree-lined beaches make you want to stay.
Buying Miami GP Tickets
The phenomenal demand for tickets meant the event was sold out almost immediately. You may still find tickets on reseller websites like Stubhub and Viagogo but at very inflated prices. Issued on April 1st, all tickets for the Grand Prix are digital.
The Best Grandstands at the Miami Grand Prix
Until lights out on May 8th, we won’t know for sure what to expect or which grandstands have the best views. But early signs are that the spectator experience will be a good one.
Despite the urban setting, the Miami circuit is open and flowing with many spots that promise views of multiple corners and a variety of track conditions.
The Main Grandstand will appeal to fans who want to be in the heart of the weekend’s action. From here you can observe pit-stops, the race build-up on the grid and the podium celebrations. There won’t be much chance of overtaking here but giant screens will keep fans informed of goings on elsewhere on track.
Turn 1 Grandstand is sure to be the scene of much incident. It’s always a thrill to see 20 F1 cars piling into turn 1 on the first lap of a race, and the tight corner after the long straight should encourage overtaking. As well as a distant view of the start grid, fans can see the pitlane exit and witness first-hand the nail-biting conclusions to race strategy battles.
At the Marina Grandstand the sweeping, multi-apex curve of turns 6, 7 and 8 offer the best view of F1 cars taking on a medium-high speed section of track. It’s an unlikely place for over-takes but a great vantage point to appreciate the tremendous grip and downforce of Formula 1 cars.
The Beach Grandstand section forms a mini stadium-like section. Here cars slow rapidly into turn 11, a likely overtaking spot. You can expect to see drivers getting on the brakes late to make a pass. Too late and their rival will have a chance to retaliate through the following turns 12 and 13. With a lot of fans in this area the atmosphere should be fantastic. Keep in mind though that while there will be some concession stands nearby, this grandstand is the furthest from the Fan Zone, inside the stadium.
Turn 18 Grandstand sees cars accelerate out of the turn 17 hairpin, around turn 18 and towards the final turn of the Miami circuit.
Getting to the Miami International Circuit
The stadium – home to the Miami Dolphins – is used to staging large events so the infrastructure and experience should mean a smooth arrival for F1 fans. The circuit is located in Miami Gardens, about 15 miles north of downtown Miami.
Miami International Airport (MIA) is just west of downtown and handles many flights from North and South America, as well as major European airports.
Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL) to the north is slightly closer to the circuit, but about a 45 minute drive from downtown. It has fewer international flights and can be easier and quicker for arrivals. A hub for many domestic, low-cost carriers means flights can be cheaper too.
On the ground, Metrobus and Metrorail have good coverage and getting around solely by public transport is easy.
Parking is included in some hospitality packages but other fans will need to order parking passes in advance. There are parking lots within walking distance to the circuit (park & walk) or if you prefer you can park off-site and take the shuttle bus to the circuit gates (park & shuttle). They cost the same at $50 on Friday, $60 on Saturday and $80 on Sunday.
About Me
I’m Danny, an incurable Formula 1 fan for over 30 years and founder of The F1 Spectator. My aim is to inform and inspire, arming you with helpful tips and advice for your next F1 trip.
