– After qualifying on Saturday, the FIA will discuss whether the start time for the Miami Grand Prix on Sunday should be postponed. According to current weather service forecasts, heavy rain and storms are expected.
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The race is actually scheduled to start on site at 4 p.m. Locally, the start time for the Grand Prix is planned for 10 p.m. After qualifying, two meetings are scheduled to discuss whether this schedule is still appropriate given the weather forecast. The conditions themselves pose a major challenge for Formula 1.
In addition to Formula 1, Formula 2 and the Porsche Cup are also represented in Miami. Originally, the Miami weekend was to be held without a junior series, but since Formula 2 was unable to start in Bahrain or Saudi Arabia, it will instead race in Miami and Montreal.
Difficult decision for the FIA
Since the weather in Florida is very difficult to predict, reaching an agreement on a new schedule is likely to be very challenging. Beyond the potential consequences on the track, local regulations regarding storm warnings could throw a wrench in Formula 1’s plans.
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If lightning strikes within a radius of eight miles (approximately 12.8 kilometers), the event would have to be interrupted. All attending fans and staff would have to seek shelter accordingly. A 30-minute pause is recommended in this case. Only after half an hour without any lightning strikes within eight miles would it be possible to continue the event.
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Due to the difficult forecast, the FIA is trying to delay the decision as much as possible. The closer to the start of the event, the more accurate the weather forecast is likely to be.
According to the FIA weather report, thunderstorms with wind speeds between 50 and 80 km/h are expected. The forecasted precipitation intensity is 25 to 35 millimeters per hour. Regular lightning or even hail is also expected.
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Especially in the afternoon, there is a risk of such weather conditions. In the morning, signs point to light showers. A decision on the race start time is expected by evening at the latest.
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