Formula One bosses have taken the unusual precaution of moving Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix forwards three hours to avoid a forecast thunderstorm washing the race away.
Instead of starting at 4pm local time in Florida, it will begin at 1pm (6pm GMT).
A statement from the FIA, Formula One and Miami Grand Prix confirmed: ‘The decision has been taken to move the start of Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix to 1pm in Miami.
‘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.’
The decision was taken between the governing FIA and Formula One Management, the sportsman owners, after qualifying on Saturday night.
The risk of thunderstorms is particularly relevant in Florida, where state law decrees that major events must be postponed or cancelled if lightning strikes.
With that predicted from 3pm, the race has been moved with the teams informed of the decision, which they are happy to comply with.
More to follow…
