Verstappen sets Miami GP goal following key Silverstone test

The four-time world champion heads into the opening triple-header of the 2026 season off the back of a far from ideal start, with the RB22 exposing clear weaknesses compared to the leading teams in almost every area apart from engine performance. Verstappen, however, has hardly been inactive during the extended break. The Dutchman took part in two separate events at the Nordschleife and also returned to the track on April 22 for a crucial filming day at Silverstone.

During the test, Verstappen had the opportunity to evaluate several aerodynamic upgrades, including a new Ferrari-style “macarena” rear wing concept, albeit based on a different design philosophy. Speaking ahead of the Miami weekend, he admitted it felt good to be back behind the wheel after the long break, adding that the Silverstone running helped him reconnect with the car and get back up to speed before the championship resumes in Florida.

Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton will not take part in the FIA press conferences during Thursday’s media day in Miami, with both drivers instead expected to speak exclusively to written media and broadcasters throughout the day. As usual, the opening day of the weekend will be fully dedicated to media activities before the cars hit the track on Friday, with the FIA dividing the selected drivers into two groups of three.

Nico Hulkenberg, Sergio Perez and Oscar Piastri will speak first at 13:00 local time (18:00 UK time), before Isack Hadjar, Carlos Sainz and current championship leader Kimi Antonelli appear half an hour later at 13:30 local time (18:30 UK time). Friday will instead feature the team principals’ FIA press conference at 14:30 local time (19:30 UK time), with Mattia Binotto, Frederic Vasseur and James Vowles all set to attend ahead of the start of on-track action.