The 2026 Formula 1 season roars back into life this weekend with the Miami Grand Prix, a high-energy stop on the calendar that has quickly become one of the sport's most distinctive events.
Set around the iconic Hard Rock Stadium, the race blends American spectacle with increasingly important championship implications, and this year's edition carries even more intrigue after a lengthy spring break and early-season reset.
Round 4 of the season—and the second Sprint weekend of 2026—arrives at a pivotal time. Teams have had several weeks to analyse performance under the new regulations, meaning upgrades and setup changes are expected across the grid.
The FIA has also made several tweaks to the regulation in response to continued complaints from drivers.
The Sprint format compresses the weekend: there's just one 90-minute practice session on Friday before Sprint Qualifying, followed by Saturday's Sprint race and full Grand Prix qualifying.
The Miami International Autodrome is a temporary street circuit featuring long straights, heavy braking zones, and a tight, technical middle sector. Overtaking opportunities exist, but tyre wear and cooling are constant concerns, especially in Florida's heat and humidity. There's also a slim chance of rain.
Here are the key timings for the UK and the United States:
Key timings (UK - BST)
Friday, May 1
- Practice 1: 17:00
- Sprint Qualifying: 21:30
Saturday, May 2
- Sprint Race: 17:00
- Qualifying: 21:00
Sunday, May 3
Key timings (U.S. – Eastern Time)
Friday, May 1
- Practice 1: 12:00 PM ET
- Sprint Qualifying: 4:30 PM ET
Saturday, May 2
- Sprint Race: 12:00 PM ET
- Qualifying: 4:00 PM ET
Sunday, May 3
In the UK, there will be live coverage on Sky Sports F1, streaming via Sky Go or NOW, and highlights on Channel 4. In the U.S., you'll be able to catch all the action on Apple TV. The race is also being screened in select IMAX theaters.
Miami is more than just a spectacle, as it's become a key momentum race for drivers. With teams bringing updates and drivers eager to make a statement after the break, performance swings are highly likely. Add in the unpredictability of a Sprint weekend and the physical demands of the circuit, and the stage is set for a dramatic few days.
Between the late-night UK viewing and prime-time U.S. slot, this is one of the most globally accessible races of the year, and one that could have an outsized impact on the early championship fight, especially if teams like Ferrari and McLaren can take the fight to Mercedes.