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Earlier start set for Miami race due to storm worries

Miami, USASunday, May 3, 2026

The 2024 Miami Grand Prix faces a dramatic shift as relentless rain forces organizers to postpone the start by three hours. Sunday’s storm system, forecasted to intensify later in the day, has prompted officials to shift the race from its original 4 p.m. local time to an earlier 1 p.m. kickoff.

Why the Change?

Heavy rain introduces dangerous conditions—slippery tracks, reduced visibility, and a higher risk of collisions. Teams, promoters, and the FIA collaborated to assess the risks, ultimately deciding to race ahead of the storm to prioritize safety and ensure a smoother conclusion.

Grid Preview: Verstappen vs. Antonelli

Max Verstappen secures second on the grid, trailing Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli, who clinches pole position in his debut race. Both drivers now face an unpredictable challenge—adapting to wet-weather chaos—as the forecast hints at possible rain before the final laps.

A High-Stakes Gamble

The revised schedule is a calculated risk. Will the earlier start outmaneuver the storm? Fans and teams will find out as tires, strategies, and split-second decisions collide under the Miami skies. One thing is certain: the race just got more unpredictable.

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