Watch F1 Miami Grand Prix — Practice 1 Free.

What's at Stake

As the first session of the weekend at the Miami International Autodrome, Practice 1 is critical for teams to gather data on the evolving track surface and extreme Florida humidity. With the 2026 technical regulations in full effect, this session serves as a vital testing ground for aerodynamic efficiency and power unit cooling strategies in high-ambient temperatures.

Form Guide

Heading into the sixth round of the 2026 season, the championship battle has intensified with several teams showing inconsistent pace across different street circuits. Momentum is currently split between the early-season points leaders and those who have recently introduced significant floor upgrades designed to handle the bumpy nature of semi-permanent facilities.

Key Players to Watch

• Max Verstappen — The Dutchman has historically mastered the technical sectors of this track and remains the benchmark for long-run consistency.
• Lewis Hamilton — Always a crowd favorite in the United States, his ability to provide precise feedback on tire degradation will be essential for his team's setup.
• Lando Norris — Following strong performances on high-speed layouts, he will look to exploit the long straights and heavy braking zones of the Miami circuit.

Prediction

Expect a cautious start to the session as drivers navigate a "green" track with low grip levels before lap times tumble in the final twenty minutes. Red Bull and Ferrari are likely to trade the fastest sectors, but Max Verstappen is predicted to finish the session on top as he typically finds the limit of the circuit faster than his rivals.