The Formula 1 season is set to resume after its enforced break, with the Miami Grand Prix marking the beginning of what has been described as a 'new championship'. Following a five-week gap, the teams will return to the track, with Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur suggesting that everyone will bring new upgrades to Miami, making it feel like another start to the season.
Mercedes counterpart Toto Wolff echoed this sentiment, stating that the break has given teams the opportunity to learn and optimize their systems, making the Miami Grand Prix an exciting restart to the season. The extended break has allowed teams to work on their cars, with the $215m budget cap and aerodynamic testing restrictions still in place. Teams like McLaren have been working on significant upgrades, with team principal Andrea Stella stating that they will introduce a 'completely new car' for the North American races.
The focus will be on the upgrades packages brought to the cars, and how they translate into lap time. The break has also given teams time to analyze data and understand how to operate their cars and power units for improved performance. Drivers have been working on their fitness training and using team simulators to maximize their cars and driving styles. The first practice in Miami will be extended to 90 minutes to allow drivers and teams to get up to speed with the new parameters.
Mercedes leads both the Drivers' and Constructors' Championships, with Ferrari in second place. The Miami Grand Prix will be live on Sky Sports F1, with the season's second Sprint weekend taking place on Friday.