Miami Grand Prix 2026: Sprint Qualifying Shock as Norris Seizes Pole, Ferrari and Mercedes Falter

Key facts

• Lando Norris on pole for Saturday's 19-lap sprint race at Miami International Autodrome.
• Charles Leclerc fastest in Friday's FP1 session.
• Max Verstappen improved in FP1 but not fully satisfied with regulation changes.
• George Russell says Mercedes dynamic unaffected by Kimi Antonelli's winning streak.
• Thunderstorms expected on Sunday, May 3, for the 57-lap Miami Grand Prix.
• Apple begins 5-year Formula 1 coverage deal, treating Miami as relaunch.
• Circuit has 19 corners and three long straights over 3.363 miles.
• Laurent Mekies says Red Bull originated Macarena rear wing concept before Ferrari.

Norris Dominates Sprint Qualifying as Top Teams Struggle

Lando Norris seized pole position for Saturday's sprint race at the Miami Grand Prix, delivering a blow to Ferrari and Mercedes. The McLaren driver's performance sets up a potential third consecutive win for the team in Miami. Ferrari suffered a flop in sprint qualifying, while Mercedes also struggled to match the pace.

Leclerc Tops FP1 as Verstappen Shows Improvement

Charles Leclerc set the fastest time in Friday's first practice session, signaling Ferrari's strength over a single lap. Max Verstappen showed improvement after a difficult start to the season, but the Red Bull driver remains unhappy with Formula 1's regulation changes, describing them as "like a tickle." Mercedes faced reliability issues during FP1, adding to their concerns.

Mercedes Dynamic Unchanged Despite Antonelli's Winning Streak

George Russell insisted that his relationship with Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli remains unaffected by Antonelli's recent winning streak. Russell emphasized the need for commanding victories over Antonelli in Miami to assert his position. Antonelli acknowledged that Mercedes might have to fight harder at this circuit.

Mekies Reveals Red Bull's Macarena Rear Wing Concept Origin

Laurent Mekies disclosed that Red Bull Racing developed the Macarena rear wing concept before Ferrari, contradicting earlier assumptions. The revelation adds intrigue to the ongoing technical battle between teams. The concept has been a topic of discussion in the paddock for its potential performance gains.

Weather Threatens Sunday's Main Race

Thunderstorms are forecast for Sunday, May 3, when the 57-lap Miami Grand Prix is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. ET. The potential for wet conditions could reshuffle the grid and test driver skill. The sprint race on Saturday at 12 p.m. ET is expected to remain dry.

Apple Launches Five-Year F1 Coverage Deal in Miami

Apple is treating the Miami Grand Prix as the relaunch of its Formula 1 coverage, beginning a five-year agreement. The tech giant's entry into F1 broadcasting marks a significant shift in media rights. The Miami event, held at the Miami International Autodrome around Hard Rock Stadium, is known for its spectacle beyond racing.

Stroll Criticizes 'Fake' F1 Cars as Senna Legacy Looms

Lance Stroll described current Formula 1 cars as "fake" and less fun to drive than Formula 3 cars, questioning the direction of the sport. Meanwhile, the anniversary of Ayrton Senna's death on May 1, 1994, prompts reflection on what might have been. Juan Pablo Montoya noted that a winning car is key to keeping Max Verstappen happy amid Red Bull's recent gloom.

The bottom line

• Lando Norris leads McLaren's charge with sprint pole, while Ferrari and Mercedes face challenges.
• Charles Leclerc's FP1 pace suggests Ferrari could be strong in qualifying but race pace remains unknown.
• Max Verstappen's dissatisfaction with regulations hints at ongoing tension with F1's direction.
• Thunderstorms on Sunday could dramatically alter race strategy and outcomes.
• Apple's five-year F1 deal begins with Miami, signaling a new era in broadcast coverage.
• Lance Stroll's criticism of F1 cars adds to debates about the sport's authenticity.