Formula 1 returns to the track this weekend for the first overseas round, held in Miami around the Hard Rock Stadium. A track inaugurated in 2022 with the first race on a new semi-permanent circuit, built in a parking lot and with changes to the road surface. As the sixth round is about to begin, Pirelli has commented on the Miami event, with circuit modifications and softer new compounds.
What changes compared to 2024?
After the 2024 edition, which saw Lando Norris take his first career victory, the Miami round aims to deliver even more spectacle. Softer compounds and changes to the track will allow drivers to be faster and open up more strategic choices for the long race.
As in Jeddah, Pirelli has opted to go one step softer in the range, offering teams the C3, C4, and C5 compounds. These compounds could still be put to the test by the temperatures expected during the Miami weekend. In fact, during last year’s edition, the asphalt reached temperatures above 55°C. After being resurfaced in 2023, the organizers have fixed some areas of the track with a new layer of bitumen. A series of modifications that has helped “smooth out” the bumps on the straight after Turn 8. This will allow the cars to run even lower and be faster.
More varied strategies in Miami with the softer Pirellis
With the step towards softer compounds, teams will need to fine-tune their setups to avoid excessive tyre wear. Compared to 2024, where the C2, C3, and C4 offered a narrow performance window, things could change this year, especially in terms of qualifying. Over long distance, bearing in mind that the Sprint is also scheduled, teams are more likely to face a two-stop race.
The asphalt, which evolves significantly, will be gradually rubbered in by the support series present during the weekend. Adding life to the Miami circuit will be the F1 Academy and the Porsche Carrera Cup North America.
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