Weather fears intensify as rain threat looms over Miami GP

Thunderstorms and rain could disrupt what is shaping up to be a crucial weekend for the remainder of the 2026 season, with Formula 1 finally returning after a month-long forced break during which drivers could do little more than stay sharp by training elsewhere in order to arrive fully prepared for the Miami round.

From a weather standpoint, conditions are currently expected to remain relatively manageable across the opening two days of the weekend, with Free Practice, Sprint Qualifying, the Sprint Race and qualifying for Sunday’s Grand Prix all theoretically set to take place in dry conditions.

Friday is currently expected to remain completely dry, with sunshine forecast throughout the day, a 0% chance of rain and temperatures climbing above 30°C. Winds should also stay relatively calm at around 13 km/h during the opening and only practice session of the weekend. Conditions are expected to remain dry for Sprint Qualifying as well, although wind levels could increase slightly later in the evening.

Saturday’s outlook appears very similar. The Sprint Race is currently forecast to take place in dry conditions with a 0% chance of rain, temperatures around 32°C and track temperatures approaching 50°C, while winds are expected to rise to roughly 22 km/h. Qualifying for Sunday’s Grand Prix should also remain dry, with only slightly hotter conditions expected compared to earlier in the day.

The biggest concern, however, remains Sunday. Current forecasts indicate a 40% chance of rain - lower than in recent days, but still high enough to keep teams and officials on alert throughout the weekend.

Under the regulations, the race director is allowed to declare a “Rain Hazard” up to two hours before the race if the probability of rain exceeds 40%, signalling potential low-grip conditions. On top of that, Florida’s particularly strict protocols regarding lightning and thunderstorms could create even greater disruption risks compared to a traditional wet race weekend.

Before the action finally resumes on track and while teams continue to monitor the evolving weather situation in Miami, Thursday will once again be entirely dedicated to media duties around the paddock. The FIA has split the drivers selected for the official press conferences into two separate groups. Nico Hulkenberg, Sergio Perez and Oscar Piastri will appear first at 13:00 local time (18:00 UK time), before Isack Hadjar, Carlos Sainz and championship leader Kimi Antonelli take over the room at 13:30 local time (18:30 UK time).

Attention will then shift to the team principals on Friday, with Mattia Binotto, Frederic Vasseur and James Vowles all scheduled to speak during the FIA press conference at 14:30 local time (19:30 UK time). As per usual across sprint weekends, the top three finishers after the sprint race, qualifying session and Sunday’s Grand Prix will also face the media following each session.