Max Verstappen topped the only free practice session (FP1) for the 2026 Miami Grand Prix, setting the fastest lap of 1:28.452. The Red Bull driver led teammate Sergio Perez by 0.217s, with McLaren's Lando Norris in third. The session is critical as it's the only practice before Sprint تعريف qualifying.
Max Verstappen topped the only free practice session (FP1) for the 2026 Miami Grand Prix, setting the fastest lap of 1:28.452. The Red Bull driver led teammate Sergio Perez by 0.217s, with McLaren’s Lando Norris in third. The session is critical as it’s the only practice before Sprint qualifying.
How did the FP1 session unfold?
The session took place at the Hard Rock Stadium circuit in hot and humid conditions, with track temperatures reaching 45°C. Most teams focused on fast laps using Medium and Soft tires, avoiding Hards due to the heat. A brief اعرف المزيد period occurred after Pierre Gasly (Alpine) ran off track.
What are the key results from FP1?
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull): 1:28.452 (fastest)
- Sergio Perez (Red Bull): +0.217s
- Lando Norris (McLaren): +0.341s
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari): +0.412s
- Valtteri Bottas (Alfa Romeo): 6th (surprise)
- Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes): 8th, +0.8s
- George Russell (Mercedes): 10th
Why is FP1 so important this weekend?
With only one practice session before Sprint qualifying, teams must get their setups right immediately. Any mistake could cost valuable grid positions. The session also provided crucial data on tire degradation and car balance in the heat.
What does this mean for the Sprint and main race?
According to The Race, Red Bull looks strongest for the Sprint on Saturday, but McLaren and Ferrari showed promising race pace. Qualifying is expected to be a tight battle between Verstappen and Norris, especially with McLaren’s better tire management in hot conditions.
How does the Miami circuit perform?
The 5.41 km Miami International Autodrome features a mix of slow and medium-speed corners with two DRS zones. Top speed reaches 320 km/h on the main straight. Verstappen recorded the highest speed in FP1 at 318 km/h.
What are the weather expectations?
Hot and sunny conditions are forecast for Saturday and Sunday, with temperatures around 32°C. A slight chance of scattered rain exists, but the heat will remain a major challenge for tire management and driver cooling.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Sprint qualifying in Miami?
Sprint qualifying (Sprint Shootout) takes place on Saturday, May 3, 2026, at 18:00 Saudi time (15:00 GMT).
How many practice sessions are there in a Sprint weekend?
Only one (FP1), because the Sprint weekend includes an extra qualifying session, reducing the number of free practice sessions.
Can Red Bull maintain their lead in the main race?
Based on FP1, Red Bull appears fastest, but McLaren and Ferrari showed good race pace. Tire management and heat will be decisive, especially with hot conditions expected on Sunday.
Sources
- The Race — F1 Miami GP 2026 practice result
