The Miami Grand Prix has been shifted three hours earlier, now kicking off at 1 p.m. local time (6 p.m. UK). Organisers moved the slot after Saturday’s qualifying because forecasts call for morning rain followed by thunderstorms that could linger into the evening. Florida law forces a halt at the first crack of thunder, so an earlier start gives the race the best chance to run uninterrupted.

Qualifying saw Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli claim pole, edging out Max Verstappen’s Red Bull. Antonelli, who struggled with starts earlier in the weekend, welcomed the possibility of a rolling start if rain persists. New 2026 aerodynamic rules ban Straight Line and Boost modes in wet conditions, meaning cars will run without the extra 350 kW power boost.

The FIA, FOM and Miami promoters issued a joint statement emphasizing driver and fan safety as the primary driver for the change. The last start‑time adjustment occurred at the 2024 São Paulo round under similar weather threats. With the championship leader heading into Miami on a revised timetable, teams now face a shortened window to manage tyre strategy and wet‑weather practice.