Miami GP start time could change over feared weather threat

The start time for Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix remains uncertain as the situation continues to be monitored by Formula 1 and local authorities. Current projections from local weather services suggest thunderstorms and heavy rain could arrive around 1 p.m. local time, raising concerns that the scheduled race start may overlap with the worst of the conditions. This means the race could potentially be brought forward to the morning in order to avoid the expected weather later in the day.

The situation is made more delicate by Florida’s strict safety procedures regarding thunderstorms and lightning at outdoor events. Local regulations require immediate precautions whenever dangerous weather activity is detected near a venue, with nearby lightning often enough to trigger interruptions or suspensions before the rain itself reaches the circuit.

The FIA confirmed just hours before the Miami Grand Prix that a Rain Hazard status has been officially declared after weather forecasts predicted a more than 40% chance of rainfall during the race.

The protocol was introduced for the 2026 season as part of Formula 1’s new technical regulations package and is designed to help teams and drivers manage extreme wet-weather situations more safely and effectively. One of the biggest impacts concerns parc fermé conditions, which normally prevent teams from making setup changes between qualifying and the race.

Under the new Rain Hazard rules, however, teams are allowed to work on the cars by increasing the ride height in order to reduce the risk of excessive plank wear caused by wet conditions and standing water. Changes to the front wing angle are also permitted to help improve drivability and stability.