Formula 1 reveals Miami grand prix proposal

By Rebecca Bradbury 4 May 2018

Formula One announced earlier this week it wants to stage a street race in Miami, Florida, starting in October 2019 and the city commission will vote on 10 May on a proposal to establish plans for a 10-year deal.

The series has long sought to increase its presence in the US, and if the Miami race goes ahead, it would be the first street race in the US since a grand prix in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1991.

It would also be the second F1 race in the US, in addition to the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas. As this is also held in October, it remains unclear whether the Texas fixture would be moved to earlier in the season or whether the two events would be twinned.

racers take to the streets during the Monaco Grand Prix

For charterers, a Miami grand prix would present a brilliant opportunity to rent a yacht in the city. It would provide the ideal platform for watching the race in unrivalled style as well as for hosting a post-race superyacht party or corporate charter.

The so-called ‘Magic City’ is one of the most impressive superyacht destinations in the world. The megalopolis is renowned for its electrifying nightlife and cutting-edge cuisine, making it particularly fitting for a date on the F1 calendar. It also serves as a gateway for yacht charters to Florida’s other cruising grounds.

Renting a yacht at the Miami grand prix would provide the ideal platform for watching the race in unrivalled style

Sean Bratches, F1’s managing director for commercial operations, said: “Miami’s status as one of the world’s most iconic and glamorous cities, combined with its robust tourism infrastructure, makes Miami the perfect destination for Formula One and its fans.”

‘In cooperation with the City of Miami and Miami-Dade County, I am confident we can deliver yet another global event that will be a destination for people around the world,’ added Stephen Ross, US entrepreneur and supporter of the proposed race.

The Miami race would be the latest move by Liberty Media, the American ownership group that took over F1 in 2017. Next week’s vote will be the first step to formalising details, with a final vote possible over the summer.