Full Speed Ahead

The Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix returns with new experiences, premium venues and an enhanced track

- Jacquelynn Powers Maurice

ONLY IN MIAMI could a luxurious marina filled with mega yachts be created without water. This engineering marvel—an illusion that surrounded the dry-docked vessels with vinyl “water”—was part of the spectacle of the inaugural Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, which premiered in May 2022 to sold-out crowds and star power such as Michael Jordan, Tom Brady, LeBron James and Michelle Obama.

The prestigious race returns to Miami from May 5 to 7 with even higher expectations. Now that it’s established that F1 racing is viable in a shared stadium space (where the Miami Dolphins and Hurricanes score touchdowns and tennis players serve aces at the Miami Open), the challenge this year is to improve upon last year’s success.

And by all measurements, the first F1 Miami Grand Prix was a huge success. More than 243,000 spectators visited the venue, dubbed the Miami International Autodrome during the three-day event, which culminated in a thrilling finish as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen beat Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. Financially, Miami’s local economy was fast-tracked with $349 million from people booking flights, hotel rooms, restaurants, yachts and more.