The Formula Two feature race got under way as scheduled as F1 bosses battle to beat the weather at the Miami Grand Prix.
Heavy rain and lightning hit the Miami area early on Sunday morning as a ‘shelter in place’ instruction was issued to those already at the Hard Rock Stadium and around the circuit.
The weather abated in time for the F2 support race to begin after a few minutes’ delay and two formation laps behind the safety car.
The decision was made on Saturday night to bring forward Sunday’s 57-lap F1 race by three hours, to start at 1300 local time (1800 BST).
The hope is that the race can be run before the worst of the weather arrives later in the afternoon, with Florida law, which dictates that events must be stopped in the event of lightning within an eight-mile radius, part of the consideration.
An F1 statement read: “Following discussions between FIA, FOM (Formula One Management) and the Miami promoter, the decision has been taken to move the start of Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix to 13:00 local time in Miami due to the weather forecast that is expected to bring heavier rainstorms later in the afternoon close to the original planned race start time.
“This decision has been taken to ensure the least amount of disruption to the race, and to ensure the maximum possible window to complete the Grand Prix in the best conditions and to prioritise the safety of drivers, fans, teams and staff.”
There will be extra desire for the showpiece event to go ahead to avoid the prospect of a third race being cancelled – following the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix not taking place due to the war in the Middle East.
Championship leader Kimi Antonelli is set to start from pole ahead of Max Verstappen.
